PIA Gains UK Approval, Set to Resume Direct Flights Next Month
News Desk
Islamabad: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has reached a significant milestone after receiving approval from the UK Department of Transport as a third-country operator, clearing the path for direct flights to Britain starting next month.
Phased Flight Resumption
A PIA spokesperson confirmed that the airline will begin by launching direct flights to Manchester in October. In the next phase, flights to Birmingham and London will be added, enhancing connectivity to major British cities.
Passenger and Cargo Services
PIA will offer both passenger and cargo flights, supporting trade and commercial activities 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, permitting PIA to transport cargo from Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad to the UK.
Audit and Certification
The license was granted following a thorough audit conducted by British authorities, in coordination with Pakistan Civil Aviation and UK inspection teams. The Department of Transport officially notified PIA of the approval on Tuesday, marking a significant endorsement of the airline’s standards.
Leadership Response
PIA’s CEO expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and other supporting institutions for their role in this achievement. The spokesperson described the development as a major step in PIA’s revival and a demonstration of international confidence in the airline’s operations.
This extremely uplifting news for thousands who been waiting for the PIA to recommence its direct flight to Pakistan. This particularly is a good news for many elderly who find chores of travelling on other flights involving cumbersome transfers , long waits and repeated security checks very difficult to negotiate.
Since, the PIA direct flights stopped, the cost of travelling have been extortionate. Hope, PIA will redress this balance making it possible for people travel to their home land.