Following the green light from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is gearing up to resume flights to Europe within the next 10 days.

The initial routes have been planned for Manchester and Paris, sources revealed.

In view of the impending permission from EASA, preparations for the immediate resumption of direct flights to Milan and Paris are already complete. The booking of these flights will be started as soon as the preparations for these stations abroad are completed and the marketing department issues the flight booking schedule.

Before the EASA ban, PIA operated flights to several European destinations, including Barcelona, Birmingham, Bradford, and London, along with the now-prioritized cities. The airline also has plans to reintroduce services to Copenhagen, Oslo, and Amsterdam.

Also Read: Ban lifted: PIA, Pakistani airlines can fly directly to Europe

In addition to Europe, PIA is eyeing a resumption of flights to New York after permission from the United States. Six Boeing 777 aircraft are earmarked for operations to Europe, the UK, and the US as part of the national carrier's efforts to re-establish its global network.

In a major breakthrough for Pakistan’s aviation industry, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) officially lifted the ban on Pakistani airlines, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), on Friday, allowing them to resume direct flights to Europe.

The decision marks a turning point after a three-year suspension, which began in 2020 following concerns over licensing and safety issues.

Defense and Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif welcomed the news, stating: "We have undergone numerous audits over the years. In the most recent audit, Pakistani airlines were rated better than many global carriers. This is a testament to our improved safety standards and operational excellence."