ISLAMABAD (AP) — After a hiatus of five years, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed its flights to the United Kingdom, marking a significant milestone for the airline and its operations. This development comes after a ban was lifted, which had been imposed due to a scandal involving fake pilot licenses.
The suspension of PIA's services to the UK, as well as to the European Union, was initiated in June 2020, following a tragic plane crash in Karachi that resulted in the loss of nearly 100 lives. The subsequent investigations unveiled serious concerns regarding the credentials of several pilots, with many found to possess fake licenses. These revelations not only damaged the airline's reputation but also raised alarms about the safety standards within Pakistan's aviation sector.
After extensive safety audits and reforms recommended by aviation authorities, the European Union lifted its ban on PIA in November 2024. This clearance set the stage for PIA to reinstate its flights, with the airline resuming some of its suspended routes as early as January of this year.
The inaugural flight of the Boeing 777 from Islamabad to Manchester on Saturday signified PIA's return to the UK aviation market. This revival comes after months of rigorous inspections and necessary improvements that have reinstated confidence in the safety protocols of Pakistan’s aviation system.
Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif, addressing a gathering at Islamabad International Airport, termed the flight to Manchester a "remarkable beginning." He expressed a focused intention to expand operations further, with aspirations to resume flights to London and Birmingham shortly thereafter. Asif emphasized the importance of these flights for the more than 1.4 million Pakistanis residing in Britain and Europe, highlighting that the remittances they send back home are vital to Pakistan's economy.
Further illustrating the significance of the resumed services, Asif remarked, "Providing them with direct flights is both a moral and national duty. These services will save them time, offer reasonable fares, and provide direct air links to their homeland."
In addition to government officials, Mohammad Faisal, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, praised the relaunch of the flights, considering it a major advancement for both economic and cultural relations between Pakistan and the UK. He noted that this milestone promises substantial economic benefits, predicting that it will generate significant revenue and catalyze growth in trade, tourism, and the movement of people and goods between both nations.
The return of PIA to the UK aviation market is not just about restoring flight services but is also seen as a critical step towards reintegrating Pakistan into international air travel. It underscores the broader commitment of the Pakistani government and aviation authorities to enhance safety standards and maintain international confidence in its aviation capabilities.
As PIA moves forward with its operations, the airline and the Pakistani government are optimistic that the relaunch will create numerous opportunities for travelers, strengthen economic links, and revitalize the connections between Pakistan and the significant diaspora in the UK.
