ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the resumption of its direct flight operations between Lahore and London, marking a significant milestone in the gradual restoration of its United Kingdom network after a prolonged suspension.
According to a PIA spokesperson, the first flight, PK-757, will depart from Lahore for London on March 30. All flights on this route will operate to Heathrow Airport, landing at Terminal 4.
The revival of the Lahore–London route comes after a six-year hiatus, during which PIA’s operations to the UK remained largely suspended. London was among the earliest international destinations served by the national carrier, making the restoration of this route an important step in rebuilding PIA’s global presence.
With the launch of Lahore–London services, the total number of PIA’s weekly flights to the UK will increase to seven. Prior to the imposition of restrictions, the airline operated up to 10 weekly flights between Pakistan and London. PIA officials said flight frequency will be increased gradually, subject to passenger demand and operational preparedness.
Earlier, PIA had also announced the resumption of three weekly direct flights from Islamabad to London, scheduled to commence on March 29.
The restoration of direct UK flights is expected to provide much-needed relief to passengers, particularly the Pakistani diaspora residing in Britain, and is viewed as a positive development for PIA’s international operations.
This expansion follows the successful privatisation of PIA, under which a 75 percent stake was sold to a consortium led by the Arif Habib Corporation for Rs135 billion. The new management has announced plans to expand the airline’s fleet to 64 aircraft in phases as part of its long-term growth strategy.
Additionally, Fauji Fertiliser Company Limited has joined the Arif Habib-led consortium, contributing financial strength and corporate expertise, and will also play a role in the airline’s management structure.
