Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has achieved a major breakthrough after being granted approval by the UK Department of Transport as a third country operator, paving the way for the resumption of direct flights to Britain from next month.

Flights to resume in phases

According to a PIA spokesperson, the national carrier will initially launch direct flights to Manchester in October. In the second phase, Birmingham and London will be added to the flight schedule, expanding the airline’s connectivity to key British cities.

He said the airline will not only carry passengers, but also cargo, which will also boost commercial activities.

Passenger and cargo services

PIA will not only provide passenger flights but also cargo transport services, boosting commercial activity between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.

The UK Department of Transport has also issued a five-year ACC3 certificate for security and cargo operations, valid until 2030. This certificate allows PIA to carry cargo from Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad to the UK.

Audit and certification

Before issuing the license, British authorities carried out an audit with support from Pakistan Civil Aviation and UK inspection teams. Following the audit, the Department of Transport formally informed PIA of the approval on Tuesday.

The clearance comes as a significant expression of international trust in the airline, which has been striving to rebuild its reputation and expand operations abroad.

Leadership’s response

PIA CEO expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and other affiliated institutions for their support in achieving this milestone.

“This progress is a milestone in the revival of the organization,” the spokesperson said, describing the development as proof of international confidence in PIA’s operations.