Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially resumed its flight operations to the United Kingdom after a five-year suspension.
The inaugural flight from Islamabad to Manchester was launched in a special ceremony where Defense and Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif was the chief guest, signaling what he called “the beginning of a new chapter in the history of PIA". The flight will reach Manchester in eight hours.
PIA flight PK-701 took off for Manchester carrying 250 passengers, marking the resumption of direct flights between Pakistan and the UK. In a gesture of celebration, PIA also presented gifts to passengers on the inaugural flight, including a 660cc car awarded to one lucky traveller.
According to a PIA spokesperson, the airline will initially operate two weekly flights from Islamabad to Manchester — on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The number of flights will be gradually increased, with plans to launch direct services to London and Birmingham in the near future.
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The ceremony was attended by the British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott, the defense secretary, and other senior officials. Addressing the gathering, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif said that this achievement was the result of the current government’s correct priorities and continuous hard work.
During the event, Khawaja Asif also presented a commemorative shield to the British high commissioner in recognition of her support.
“When our airline was banned, the image of the country was damaged and we suffered economic losses,” he said. “Today, through determination and focused reforms, we have rebuilt our airline system.”
Diplomatic efforts behind success
Khawaja Asif credited Pakistan’s diplomats in Britain and across Europe for playing a vital role in reviving the airline’s operations. “Our diplomats fought Pakistan’s case vigorously,” he noted, extending special thanks to Jane Marriott and her team for their “positive and constructive role” throughout the process.
The minister added that this milestone reflects the success of the government’s policy to restore Pakistan’s credibility in the international aviation community.
Economic, social significance
Highlighting the broader impact, Khawaja Asif said the resumption of PIA’s UK flights would strengthen Pakistan economically and socially by reconnecting communities and boosting business opportunities.
“Flights strengthen and build the country economically and socially,” he emphasized. “PIA is a non-profit organization, and we are determined to make it a symbol of national pride once again.”
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Following the successful relaunch of flights to Manchester, Khawaja Asif revealed that PIA plans to expand operations to other major UK cities. “After Manchester, our goal is to start flights to London and Birmingham,” he announced.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to bringing PIA back to its “lost position” among the world’s reputable airlines.
Two weekly flights to Manchester in first phase
According to a statement by the PIA spokesperson, the airline will initially operate two weekly flights from Islamabad to Manchester, scheduled for Saturdays and Tuesdays.
The flight from Islamabad will depart at 12 noon and arrive in Manchester at 5pm local time. On the return leg, the Manchester flight will depart at 7pm and land in Islamabad at 7am.
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PIA officials confirmed that the number of weekly flights to Manchester will gradually be increased to meet rising demand. In the second phase, the airline plans to expand its UK operations further by introducing direct flights to London.
Welcome step for overseas Pakistanis
The airline management described the announcement as a “welcome development” for Pakistanis living in Britain, who have been relying on foreign carriers since PIA’s services to the UK were suspended.
Luggage left behind
On the other hand, a PIA flight from Dubai to Multan left behind the luggage of dozens of passengers, leading to protests at Multan Airport.
According to reports, PIA flight PK-222 arrived at Multan Airport without the checked baggage of many travellers. Upon arrival, passengers were informed that their luggage had been left behind in Dubai.
Frustrated over the situation, several passengers protested at the airport, expressing anger over the airline’s negligence. They said that important documents and valuables were among the items left behind, and no clear explanation was being provided.
Airport staff later assured the affected passengers that their luggage would be brought to Multan on the next available flight from Dubai.
