Pakistan International Airlines has obtained the formal approval of the United Kingdom department for transport to operate as a third country operator, clearing the way for the resumption of direct flights between Pakistan and the United Kingdom after years of suspension.
According to PIA, the National Flag carrier will relaunch its United Kingdom operations next month, starting with flights to Manchester. The services to Birmingham and London will continue in later phases, gradually expanding the presence of the airline in one of its most important international markets.
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The United Kingdom authorities formally notified PIA of approval this week, granting the integral authorization of the airline to operate direct flights for both passengers and load. In addition, the Department of Transportation has issued a five -year ACC3 certification that covers its safety and load operations.
International aviation regulators indicated that these certifications reflect renewed confidence in PIA security protocols and operational standards, which had been under scrutiny for several years.
The Executive Director of PIA expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, VicePrimer Minister, Minister of Defense, the Ministry of Defense, the Civil Aviation Authority and all support institutions for sponsorship and cooperation to ensure approval. He also paid tribute to the PIA team, recognizing his resistance to face and complete multiple international audits in the last five years.
Read more: Passengers expect the United Kingdom flight resumption
“This milestone is the result of persistent efforts and teamwork, and positions PIA once again to directly connect Pakistan with the United Kingdom,” the CEO said in his statement.
The approval marks a significant development for the national carrier, potentially restoring the confidence of the passengers and the strengthening of commercial links through load operations.
