Islamabad, Pakistan – Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed its first flights to the United Kingdom after a five-year hiatus, marking the end of a long period of air isolation and the beginning of a new era of “renewed confidence.”
The first flight departed from the capital, Islamabad, to Manchester amidst official and popular celebration. This step was described as a major diplomatic and economic achievement for Pakistan. It follows Pakistan’s successful fulfillment of international safety standards, which were the reason for the flight ban in 2020.
The Pakistani Defense Minister confirmed that his country plans to gradually expand its flight network to include London and Birmingham. He also noted that the resumption of flights represents moral and economic support for Pakistani expatriates in Europe, who constitute one of the country’s most important sources of foreign exchange remittances.
The move reflects Pakistan’s improved international image and growing confidence in its ability to develop its civil aviation infrastructure. This strengthens cooperation with European partners and reconnects with Pakistani communities across the continent.
