PIA to resume UK flights from October 25

Flights will be operating on Tuesdays, Saturdays every week

Pakistan International Airlines is set to begin its first phase of flight operations from Islamabad to Manchester from October 25, operating on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) spokesperson stated that the flights to London will be added to the operations in the second phase. "Our compatriots will now reach their destination in just eight hours, instead of a 15-hour journey,” said the spokesperson. “ After a gap of five years, PIA is very enthusiastic about restarting this route," the spokesperson added.

Read: PIA to resume UK flights next month

The PIA flight will depart Islamabad at 12.00 pm and arrive in Manchester at 5.00 pm local time. Whereas the return flight will depart Manchester at 7.00 pm and arrive in Islamabad at 7.00 am the next day.

Earlier in September, PIA secured a formal approval from the UK’s Department for Transport to operate as a Third Country Operator, resuming flights after five years of suspension. The approval allows PIA to operate direct flights for both passengers and cargo.

The UK’s Department of Transport issued PIA a five-year ACC3 certification, which covers flight security and cargo operations. These certifications renew confidence in PIA’s safety protocols and operational standards.

Read more: Pakistan-UK flights await TCO clearance

PIA’s Chief Executive Officer, Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Amir Hayat, commended the PIA team, acknowledging the team’s resilience in completing multiple international audits for 5 years. He also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister, the Ministry of Defence, and Civil Aviation Authority for their cooperation in securing the approval.

“This milestone is the result of persistent efforts and teamwork, and it positions PIA once again to directly connect Pakistan with the UK,” said Amir Hayat.

The continuation of national carrier flights to the UK marks a significant development in strengthening trade relations through cargo operations and potentially restoring passenger confidence in the service.