PIA to begin direct flights to UK after a pause of five years
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially been
cleared to resume direct flights to the United Kingdom, ending a nearly
five-year hiatus.
A spokesperson for PIA confirmed that the airline has received Third Country Operator (TCO) approval from UK authorities, which allows them to restart direct services. The first phase of the relaunch will include flights to Manchester next month, with Birmingham and London to follow shortly thereafter.
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This approval comes after a series of thorough audits by the UK Department for Transport (DfT), which found that security protocols at Pakistani airports now meet international standards. As part of the approval process, PIA has also been granted a five-year ACC3 certification, a critical requirement for airlines operating both cargo and passenger services to Europe.
“These certifications reflect full confidence in PIA’s operational and safety standards,” said the spokesperson, adding that the national carrier now holds comprehensive approval for both passenger and cargo flights to the UK.
This clearance is seen as a major milestone for PIA, which has faced a challenging period in recent years. In June 2020, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) banned PIA from operating in EU airspace due to safety concerns, including issues related to pilot licensing. However, the ban was lifted in November 2024, clearing the way for PIA to seek approval from the UK.
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In preparation for the resumption of UK flights, PIA has put two of its Boeing 777 aircraft through upgrades, including landing gear replacements and interior refurbishments, such as new seats and cabin lighting in the Executive Economy class. One of these aircraft is expected to return to service by the end of this month.
The return of direct flights to the UK is expected to significantly strengthen PIA’s international network and cater to the large Pakistani community living in Britain.
Source: Bol News