Pakistan International Airlines Resumes London Flights

International Airlines Group (PIA) has resumed direct flights to United Kingdom — London after a six-year suspension, with the inaugural flight departing from Pakistan — Islamabad on March 29, 2026. This milestone follows the airline's privatization, where a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation acquired a 75% stake for Rs135 billion in December 2025. The British authorities lifted a ban on International Airlines Group's UK operations in July 2025, which was initially imposed in May 2020 due to an Airbus A320 crash and concerns over pilot licensing. Federal Minister for Aviation Khawaja Asif announced the resumption, highlighting the government's efforts. The airline will initially operate four weekly flights between Pakistan and United Kingdom — London, with three from Pakistan — Islamabad and one from Pakistan — Lahore, and plans to expand its network to other UK cities, Europe, Canada, and the USA. The move is expected to strengthen business, tourism, and cultural ties between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, providing direct travel facilities for over 1.6 million overseas Pakistanis.