The flights act as a symbol of “enduring friendship and deepening partnership with the United Kingdom”
Manchester Airport is the first in the UK to hold the direct flights(Image: Kenny Brown | Manchester Evening News)
The first direct flights from the UK to a major Asian city are set to roll out in a major milestone for international travel. On Saturday, October 25, Pakistan International Airlines’ inaugural direct flight from Islamabad International Airport will arrive at Manchester Airport, celebrating the historic restoration of direct air connectivity after a five-year break.
Since 2020, there have been no direct flights between Pakistan and airports north of London, significantly increasing travel times and personal costs for passengers. Direct flights resume this weekend following the UK’s decision to remove PIA from its Air Safety List on July 16 – a move predicated on rigorous technical audits and demonstrable improvements in the airline’s aviation safety standards.
Supported by thorough reviews of pilot licensing, aircraft maintenance and safety procedures, this shows that UK aviation authorities trust PIA to meet strict international flight safety standards.
AVM Muhammad Amir Hayat Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pakistan International Airlines said: “This is a moment of immense pride and profound significance for Pakistan, and a huge benefit for the thousands of passengers who rely on this vital route.
“Working closely with our UK partners, the journey for us to this point has been one of meticulous reform and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
“We have worked tirelessly to not only rectify past challenges but to establish a robust and world-class aviation safety framework. The return of PIA to the UK is a direct result of these efforts and a clear signal of our renewed operational integrity and financial health, promising a reliable and affordable service for all.”
The five-year suspension, prompted an intensive period of reform within Pakistan’s aviation sector. Key initiatives included:
- Rectification of pilot licensing: Pakistan partnered closely with British civil aviation authorities to re-test and certify its pilots in the UK, alongside a comprehensive ICAO audit. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) later confirmed it had “re-established sufficient confidence” in Pakistan’s oversight capabilities.
- Enhancement of broader safety standards: PIA and Pakistani authorities implemented significant upgrades to their overall safety management systems, ensuring full compliance with international aviation regulations.
- Strategic financial restructuring: PIA underwent a transformative financial restructuring, creating an operationally stable airline. This culminated in PIA reporting its first annual profit in over two decades, signalling a strong foundation for future growth and investment in safety.
His Excellency Dr. Mohammad Faisal, High Commissioner of Pakistan to the UK, emphasised the broader implications of this development for the nations and their citizens, saying: “The re-establishment of direct air links is a powerful symbol of our enduring friendship and deepening partnership with the United Kingdom.
“This will unlock immense opportunities, most importantly for people and their families, as well as trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. The arrival of PIA’s first flight today is a momentous occasion, celebrating not only a technical achievement but a renewed bond between two nations.”
Key impacts and benefits of the resumed flights include a boost to bilateral trade and economic growth with more affordable, faster options, strengthening diaspora ties, enhanced tourism and cultural exchange, increased connectivity for UK Airports and a symbol of renewed confidence.
Direct flights between Manchester and Islamabad are available to book on the PIA website or through booking partners, with fares starting from£633 and just under eight hours of travelling. Initially, four weekly flights are expected to operate. Flights from Birmingham and London are expected to follow in the next phase as demand dictates.
