The airline’s first flight, PK-785, leaves Islamabad for London with 325 passengers
The airline’s first flight, PK-785, took off from Islamabad to London with 325 passengers. PHOTO: Express
LAHORE:
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) on Sunday resumed flight operations in London after a gap of six years, restoring a long-standing route between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
The airline’s first flight, PK-785, took off from Islamabad to London with 325 passengers. The flight was seen off by Defense Secretary Lieutenant General (Retd) Muhammad Ali and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott.
Before departure, a simple but dignified ceremony was held at Islamabad Airport, attended by PIA Consortium Chairman Arif Habib and senior aviation officials.
Read: PIA to resume direct flights to London after six-year hiatus
To commemorate the occasion, a cake was cut, while a raffle was held for a 660cc car for a passenger. Other passengers also received gifts.
Addressing the ceremony, the Defense Secretary said the resumption of flights would further strengthen ties between the two countries and their people. The British High Commissioner congratulated PIA on re-establishing its operations in London.
Read more: PIA completes preparations for Hajj operations
PIA said it aims to provide direct travel services to over 1.6 million Pakistanis residing in the UK. The airline’s CEO also presented commemorative shields to the distinguished guests.
The airline will start weekly flights from Lahore to London from March 30. Initially, PIA will operate four weekly flights between Pakistan and London, including three from Islamabad and one from Lahore.
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London was PIA’s first international destination and the airline has had a 71-year association with the route.
