What's happened
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed direct flights to the UK after a five-year ban due to safety concerns. The UK lifted restrictions in July 2025 following safety reforms, with the first flight from Islamabad to Manchester operating Saturday. PIA plans to expand to London and Birmingham, boosting economic and cultural ties.
What's behind the headline?
The resumption of flights marks a significant milestone for PIA, reflecting extensive safety reforms and international confidence rebuilding. The airline's return to UK routes will likely increase connectivity for the Pakistani diaspora, boosting remittances and economic ties. However, the broader context reveals ongoing challenges: PIA's financial struggles, management issues, and the privatization process. The safety reforms, including pilot licensing and maintenance upgrades, are critical for restoring credibility, but long-term sustainability depends on successful privatization and operational reforms. The move also signals Pakistan's broader efforts to improve its aviation safety standards and regain international trust, which could influence future negotiations with US authorities for transatlantic routes.
What the papers say
The articles from Gulf News, The Independent, and AP News all confirm the safety reforms and the lifting of bans, emphasizing the importance of safety audits and reforms. Gulf News highlights the political statements and future route plans, while The Independent and AP News focus on the safety issues that led to the bans and the significance of the restart for Pakistan's diaspora and economy. There is a consensus on the importance of safety reforms, but some variation in emphasis: Gulf News stresses the milestone and future expansion, whereas the others focus more on the safety concerns and reforms undertaken. The articles collectively portray a cautious optimism about PIA's future, contingent on continued safety and management improvements.
How we got here
PIA was banned from UK and EU airspace in June 2020 after a deadly crash in Karachi and revelations of pilot license fraud. The ban was lifted in November 2024 after safety audits and reforms. The airline's revival is linked to ongoing efforts to address financial losses, mismanagement, and plans for privatization, with the government aiming to sell a majority stake by late 2025.
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Common question
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Why Did Pakistan International Airlines Resume Flights to the UK?
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has recently resumed flights to the UK, including Manchester, after a period of suspension due to safety concerns. This move marks a significant step in Pakistan's efforts to restore its international reputation and reconnect with its diaspora. Many travelers are now wondering what prompted this change, what future routes might look like, and how safe Pakistani airlines are now. Below, we answer the most common questions about PIA's revival and what it means for travelers between Pakistan and the UK.
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