ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) on Sunday resumed its Islamabad–London service after a six-year suspension, as flight PK-785 departed with 325 passengers on board, marking the airline’s formal return to the UK capital.
The relaunch follows PIA’s re-entry into the UK market in October 2025 with Manchester flights, after British authorities lifted a ban earlier that year. The airline currently operates four weekly flights to Manchester and plans to gradually expand its presence across other UK cities.
PIA’s UK operations were halted in 2020 following the Karachi Airbus A320 crash that claimed 97 lives, along with subsequent concerns over pilot licensing standards, which led to restrictions by UK and European regulators.
The inaugural flight was seen off at Islamabad International Airport by Secretary Defence Lt Gen (retd) Muhammad Ali and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott. The ceremony, attended by PIA Consortium Chairman Arif Habib and senior aviation officials, was held in a dignified manner.
To commemorate the occasion, a cake-cutting ceremony and a lucky draw were organized, with one passenger winning a 660cc car, while others received commemorative gifts.
Speaking at the event, the defence secretary noted that the restoration of flights would further strengthen bilateral ties, while the British high commissioner congratulated PIA on resuming its London operations.
PIA aims to enhance travel convenience for over 1.6 million overseas Pakistanis in the UK. During the ceremony, the airline’s CEO presented commemorative shields to distinguished guests.
The national carrier is also set to launch weekly Lahore–London flights from March 30. Initially, PIA will operate four weekly flights to London—three from Islamabad and one from Lahore.
London holds historic significance as PIA’s first international destination, reflecting a 71-year legacy on the route, according to a spokesperson.
Meanwhile, Heathrow Airport has arranged a welcome ceremony for the arriving flight, where Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, Dr. Mohammad Faisal, will receive passengers and see off the first return service to Pakistan.
