ISLAMABAD: State-run Pakistan Worldwide Airways resumed flights to the UK on Saturday (Oct 25) for the primary time in 5 years following the lifting of a ban imposed over a faux pilot license scandal.
The airline confronted a ban from each the UK and the European Union in June 2020 after a lethal crash in Karachi that killed practically 100 individuals, and subsequent revelations of pilots with faux licenses.
The European ban was lifted in November 2024 after intensive security audits, clearing the way in which for PIA to revive suspended routes in January of this 12 months.
The primary Boeing 777 flight from Islamabad to Manchester on Saturday marked PIA’s return following months of inspections and reforms that restored Britain’s confidence in Pakistan’s aviation system.
“The flight to Manchester is a exceptional starting, however we’re firmly decided to start out flights to London and Birmingham subsequent,” Pakistan Protection Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif instructed a ceremony held at Islamabad Worldwide Airport.
Asif mentioned in a televised deal with that the flights had been important for the greater than 1.4 million Pakistanis in Britain and Europe, and famous that the remittances they ship had been the spine of Pakistan’s economic system.
“Offering them with direct flights is each an ethical and nationwide obligation,” he mentioned. “These companies will save them time, provide affordable fares, and supply direct air hyperlinks to their homeland.”
Pakistan’s Excessive Commissioner to the UK, Mohammad Faisal, hailed the relaunch as a serious step ahead for financial and cultural ties between the 2 nations.
“This milestone will convey main financial advantages; producing substantial income, boosting commerce and tourism, and increasing the motion of individuals and items,” he mentioned at a current occasion in London.
