Pakistan International Airlines obtained official approval from the UK transport department to operate as a third-party operator, paving the way for resumption of direct flights between Pakistan and the United Kingdom after years of suspension.
According to PIA, the national flag carrier will relaunch its British operations next month, starting with flights to Manchester. Services in Birmingham and London will follow in the following phases, gradually expanding the presence of the airline on one of its most important international markets.
Read: Pakistan-Uk flights await TCO clearance
British authorities officially informed the PIA of approval this week, granting the airline’s full authorization to operate direct flights for passengers and freight. In addition, the Ministry of Transport issued an ACC3 five -year certification covering its security and freight operations.
International aviation regulators have noted that these certifications reflect renewed confidence in PIA security protocols and operational standards, which have been under surveillance for several years.
The PIA chief executive officer expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Vice-Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, the Ministry of Defense, the civil aviation authority and all the support institutions for their patronage and their cooperation in obtaining approval. He also paid tribute to the PIA team, recognizing their resilience to cope and finish several international audits in the past five years.
Find out more: Passengers await the resumption of the British flight of Pia
“This step is the result of persistent efforts and teamwork, and it again positions PIA to directly link Pakistan to the United Kingdom,” the CEO said in his declaration.
Approval marks a significant development for the national carrier, potentially to restore the confidence of passengers and strengthen trade links through freight operations.
