France, Pakistan and UK distant skies await PIA’s return as the national carrier rises from a four-year standstill

Abdullah Jan

Islamabad: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is making a significant comeback in European airspace, with plans to resume direct flights to the United Kingdom and France following the lifting of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) ban.

This marks a major milestone for the airline after a four-year hiatus from European destinations, which began after a safety investigation into pilot licensing issues. With the EASA clearance, PIA is now poised to restart its European operations, beginning with services to London and Manchester, and soon, Paris, signaling a renewed era of connectivity between Pakistan and key European hubs.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is poised to restore its direct flights to the United Kingdom, with services expected to resume shortly after Eidul Fitr.

These flights mark a significant step in PIA’s efforts to regain its reputation, following its successful return to European skies three months ago after a four-year hiatus.

Initially, flights will operate from London and Manchester to Pakistan, with plans in motion to restart services from Birmingham in the near future.

Earlier, a safety audit of Pakistan’s aviation standards was conducted by a delegation from the United Kingdom’s Department for Transport and Civil Aviation Authority. The team reviewed safety protocols, operational procedures, and documentation to ensure compliance with UK aviation regulations.

On January 10, 2025, PIA celebrated a momentous achievement as its first direct flight to Europe in four years took off from New Islamabad International Airport, bound for Paris. The flight departed with near full capacity, signaling a renewed confidence in PIA’s European operations.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume direct flights to the United Kingdom and France after a four-year break, following the lifting of the EASA ban. The airline is reestablishing its European routes, beginning with services to London, Manchester, and Paris.

This return to European skies follows the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifting its ban on PIA, which had been imposed after Pakistan investigated a controversy over the authenticity of pilots’ licenses, following a tragic plane crash in Karachi that claimed 97 lives.