PIA Confirms Direct Islamabad-London Flights: When Does Service Resume?

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to restore its flagship route. The carrier will resume direct Islamabad-London flights on March 29, 2026. This move ends a six-year hiatus for the key international service. The Pakistan International Airlines UK operation is a major step in the airline’s recovery.

Regulatory and Operational Relaunch

PIA will operate four weekly flights on the route. These services will land at London Heathrow Terminal 4. The airline has formally notified Heathrow of its restart plan. This follows the securing of four weekly flight slots. These slots were previously held by Turkish Airlines. PIA is already operating three weekly flights to Manchester. The London service will significantly expand its presence.

Overcoming Safety Hurdles

The resumption follows a series of regulatory clearances. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifted its ban in November 2024. The United Kingdom removed Pakistan from its Air Safety List in July 2025. This cleared the way for direct flights to London Heathrow. The original suspension in 2020 followed a deadly crash. Subsequent revelations about pilot licenses were also a factor. The restart signals restored international confidence. It confirms major improvements in Pakistan’s aviation safety.

Privatization Fuels Expansion

This operational expansion coincides with PIA’s privatization. A consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation won a 75% stake. The bid was valued at Rs135 billion (approximately $482 million). This successful sale is a major Pakistan aviation reform. The government expects the transition to new owners by April 2026. The new management plans to expand the fleet. They aim to grow the aircraft count to 64. This signals a broader push to modernize and grow international routes. The PIA flight resumption date is a direct result of this renewed focus.

Market Impact and Connectivity

The Islamabad-London flights are strategically important. London was PIA’s first international destination. The route is crucial for the large Pakistani diaspora. It offers travelers more options for seamless air travel. The return strengthens commercial ties between the UK and Pakistan. This milestone is vital for the airline’s post-ban recovery. It helps rebuild its international network. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) views connectivity as essential. This is a positive development for commercial aviation news globally. The airline will likely utilize its Boeing 777 fleet for this long-haul service.

• Key Takeaways:
  • The PIA Islamabad-London flights are a critical step in the airline's international recovery.
  • The service will operate four times a week to London Heathrow Terminal 4.
  • The resumption is linked to the lifting of the UK Air Safety List ban in July 2025.
  • New private ownership under Arif Habib Corporation is driving this expansion.