Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will restart its United Kingdom flights on October 25 after a five-year suspension. The airline will begin with two weekly flights between Islamabad and Manchester. Flights will run on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Each flight from Islamabad will leave at 12 noon and reach Manchester by 5 pm. The return flight from Manchester will depart at 7 pm and land in Islamabad at 7 am.
This marks a major comeback for PIA after a long absence from UK skies. A spokesperson said bookings are now open with affordable fares. The spokesperson added that flight times have been reduced from 15 hours to just 8 hours. PIA aims to offer safe, fast, and comfortable travel to its passengers. The airline will increase Manchester flights gradually and plans to add London next.
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The decision follows key approvals from UK aviation authorities. On Friday, the UK Civil Aviation Authority issued PIA a Foreign Aircraft Operating Permit. This was the final clearance needed to restart flights. In September, PIA had already secured Third Country Operator (TCO) status. These approvals allow PIA to carry passengers and cargo directly into the UK.
Before the ban, PIA operated 21 flights per week to the UK. These included 10 to London, 9 to Manchester, and 2 to Birmingham. PIA’s return will restore direct connectivity between Pakistan and the UK. It will also improve travel links to Europe. Many overseas Pakistanis rely on PIA for affordable, nonstop travel.
The UK suspended PIA in 2020 over safety concerns. But after key improvements in air safety, restrictions were lifted in July 2025. PIA now plans to rebuild trust and expand operations in phases. With Manchester now active, the airline will soon add Birmingham and London. Officials expect the full UK network to resume in coming months.