Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is gearing up for a significant milestone as it nears approval to resume flight operations to the United Kingdom. The move is expected to restore critical connectivity for Pakistani travelers heading to the UK and Europe, with clearance anticipated by early 2025.
Inspection and Approval Timeline
Nadir Shafi Dar, Director General of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), recently announced that British aviation authorities are scheduled to visit Pakistan in January 2025 for a comprehensive inspection. This follows a virtual meeting between the PCAA and UK aviation officials slated for December 2024, which aims to finalize preparations for the on-site evaluation.
Dar expressed optimism, stating that the inspection would focus on the same criteria used in a recent European Union aviation assessment. The EU review yielded favorable outcomes, further bolstering Pakistan’s chances of securing approval from UK authorities.
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Restoring Critical Connections
Prior to the suspension of flights in 2020, PIA operated 21 weekly flights to key UK destinations, including 10 to London, 9 to Manchester, and 2 to Birmingham. The resumption of these services is expected to provide a significant boost to PIA’s revenue and improve travel options for passengers.
For Pakistani travelers, the return of direct flights to the UK would offer greater convenience and connectivity, reducing reliance on stopovers and third-party carriers. Additionally, the resumption is likely to strengthen diplomatic and trade relations between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
Looking Ahead
The anticipated approval marks a critical step forward for PIA, signaling progress in addressing previous safety and operational concerns. If all goes according to plan, flights to the UK could resume by the first quarter of 2025, offering renewed opportunities for travelers and contributing to the airline’s ongoing efforts to expand its international network.
PIA’s comeback in the UK market is eagerly awaited, as it represents a broader revival of Pakistan’s aviation industry on the global stage.
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