UK lifts ban on Pakistani airlines after five years
The United Kingdom has officially
removed Pakistan from its air safety list, ending a five-year ban and paving
the way for Pakistani airlines to resume flight operations to the UK. The
decision follows a rigorous technical evaluation and reflects Pakistan’s
progress in aligning with international aviation safety standards.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott
credited aviation experts from both countries for their collaborative efforts
in driving improvements, stating the removal came after a comprehensive,
independent assessment.
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to review Pakistan flight ban in November
This milestone comes shortly after the European Union also lifted its ban, amid Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to reform and privatize its national carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
welcomed the UK’s Air Safety Board decision, calling it a “positive
development” that would enhance Pakistan’s international image and boost
bilateral ties. “Alhamdulillah! PIA returns to UK skies,” he posted on X,
expressing gratitude and highlighting the significance of reconnecting over 1.6
million British residents of Pakistani origin with their homeland.
He also criticized the previous
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, blaming “reckless and irresponsible”
remarks by its officials for triggering the original ban, which he said had
caused “irreparable reputational damage” and cost the national airline billions
in losses.
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The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of restoring connectivity with the UK—not only as a vital route for families and friends—but also as a means to strengthen trade, noting the UK is Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner. He praised Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, the Ministry of Defence, and the Aviation Division for their instrumental roles in resolving the issue.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also
hailed the development as a “milestone,” reaffirming that the Civil Aviation
Authority (CAA) had met international standards. He echoed the Prime Minister’s
criticism of the PTI-era Aviation Minister, whose public remarks led to the
suspension of PIA flights to Europe and the UK.
Asif thanked European and UK
regulators for their cooperation and support, and said the lifting of the ban
would now support the upcoming privatization of PIA, potentially increasing its
value.
PIA has responded enthusiastically
to the UK’s announcement, affirming its readiness to resume services. The
airline has submitted a flight schedule for approval and plans to restart
operations with three weekly flights from Islamabad to Manchester.
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making serious efforts to lift PIA ban: Dar
The PIA administration expressed deep appreciation for all stakeholders involved—especially Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, senior ministers, the Civil Aviation Authority, and the British High Commissioner—for their role in restoring access to UK airspace. The airline reaffirmed its commitment to upholding international safety protocols and delivering quality service.
Source: The Nation