Introduction
PIA: After years of waiting, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is finally set to make a comeback in the United Kingdom. Starting September 2025, PIA will resume direct flight operations from Islamabad to Manchester. This announcement was officially confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar during a press conference in Islamabad.
The development marks a major breakthrough for Pakistan’s aviation sector and is expected to benefit both travelers and overseas Pakistanis who have long awaited PIA’s return to UK skies.
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Direct Flights to Manchester First
PIA’s initial relaunch will begin with direct flights from Islamabad to Manchester. The airline plans to operate three to four flights per week on this route in the first phase.
- First route: Islamabad → Manchester
- Frequency: 3–4 flights per week
- Passenger demand: High among overseas Pakistanis
Dar noted that the demand for direct PIA flights has been strong, especially within the Pakistani community living in the UK. For many, this development means easier travel without the hassle of long layovers.
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PIA’s Preparations Underway
To ensure a smooth relaunch, PIA has sent a senior two-member team to Manchester. The delegation includes:
- Khurram Mushtaq – Chief Operating Officer
- Zulqarnain Mehdi – General Manager Coordination
Their role is to review:
- Logistical arrangements
- Ground handling services
- Operational readiness for flights
Once their assessment is complete, they will present a detailed report to the management in Pakistan. This step shows PIA’s commitment to maintaining international service standards.
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Expansion to Other UK Cities
PIA’s return to the UK won’t stop at Manchester. Officials confirmed that the second phase of operations will include routes to London and Birmingham. Both cities have historically been among PIA’s busiest international destinations, catering to large Pakistani communities.
- Phase One: Islamabad → Manchester (September 2025)
- Phase Two: Expansion to London and Birmingham
- Future goal: Strengthen PIA’s presence across Europe
This expansion is expected to restore PIA’s visibility in the UK market while offering passengers more flexibility.
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UK Restrictions Lifted
PIA’s return has been made possible after the UK government lifted restrictions on PIA flights that had been in place for several years. These restrictions were a major setback for the airline, preventing direct operations to one of its most important markets.
Now, with the ban lifted, Pakistan’s national carrier has a fresh opportunity to rebuild trust, regain market share, and strengthen ties with the UK.
Why This Matters
The resumption of flights has several implications:
For Travelers
- Direct routes mean no more long layovers in other countries.
- Faster, more convenient travel between Pakistan and the UK.
For Overseas Pakistanis
- Easier access for the Pakistani diaspora in the UK.
- Better options for family visits, business travel, and cultural exchange.
For PIA
- Opportunity to capture a key revenue stream.
- A chance to rebuild its image after years of setbacks.
- Strengthen its role in Pakistan’s aviation sector.
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Market Expectations and Next Steps
Industry experts believe that PIA’s return to the UK could be a turning point for the struggling airline. The UK remains one of Pakistan’s most critical travel markets due to the large overseas population.
In the coming weeks, more details will be shared regarding:
- Ticket prices
- Official flight schedules
- Online booking options
Travel agencies and passengers are eagerly awaiting the release of this information.
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FAQs About PIA’s UK Relaunch
Q1: When will PIA flights to the UK restart?
➡️ PIA will relaunch direct flights from September 2025, starting with Islamabad–Manchester.
Q2: Which cities in the UK will PIA initially fly to?
➡️ The first phase covers Manchester, followed by London and Birmingham in the second phase.
Q3: How many flights will PIA operate per week to Manchester?
➡️ PIA plans to run 3 to 4 flights weekly between Islamabad and Manchester.
Q4: Why were PIA flights to the UK suspended earlier?
➡️ Flights were restricted due to regulatory and operational concerns, which have now been resolved.
Q5: What benefits will overseas Pakistanis get from this relaunch?
➡️ Direct flights mean easier, faster, and more affordable travel options between Pakistan and the UK.
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Conclusion
The decision to resume PIA’s direct UK operations in September 2025 is a landmark moment for Pakistan’s aviation industry. Starting with the Islamabad–Manchester route, the airline is preparing for a phased expansion to London and Birmingham.
This comeback not only fulfills a long-standing demand of overseas Pakistanis but also offers PIA a chance to rebuild its global presence. If executed smoothly, this move could significantly strengthen trade, tourism, and cultural connections between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
As ticket prices and schedules are announced in the coming weeks, travelers can finally look forward to the long-awaited return of PIA to UK skies.