Pakistan Resumes Direct Flights to UK After 6-Year Hiatus

Pakistan officially resumed direct air links to the United Kingdom, marking a significant step in restoring international connectivity after a six-year suspension.

The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) announced on Sunday the relaunch of its direct flights to London, with the inaugural flight departing from Islamabad.

The airline confirmed that services will also operate from Lahore to London, signaling a broader effort to reconnect major Pakistani cities with key global destinations.

In an official statement, PIA described the relaunch as “a new chapter connecting two vibrant cities,” emphasizing improved travel opportunities and closer ties between the two countries.

Pakistani state media reported that a special ceremony was held at Islamabad International Airport to commemorate the first flight, underscoring the importance of the milestone for the country’s aviation sector.

Flights between Pakistan and the UK had been halted for six years following aviation safety concerns. However, operations resumed gradually after the United Kingdom removed Pakistan from its air safety list in July 2025, paving the way for PIA to restart services in October.