The European ban was lifted last November after extensive safety audits, clearing the way for PIA to restore suspended routes in January this year. The first Boeing 777 flight from Islamabad to Manchester on Saturday marked PIA’s return after months of inspections and reforms that restored Britain’s confidence in Pakistan’s aviation system. “The flight to Manchester is a remarkable beginning, but we are firmly determined to start flights to London and Birmingham next,” Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif told a ceremony at Islamabad International Airport. “Providing them with direct flights is both a moral and national duty,” he said. “This milestone will bring major economic benefits, generating substantial revenue, boosting trade and tourism, and expanding the movement of people and goods,” he said at a recent event in London.

Source: The Times October 25, 2025 15:14 UTC