At a press briefing in Islamabad, Dar revealed that the national carrier would launch three to four weekly flights between Islamabad and Manchester. He underscored the strong demand among the public for the restoration of direct air links with the UK.

A two-member PIA team—comprising Chief Operating Officer Khurram Mushtaq and General Manager of Coordination Zulqarnain Mehdi—has already arrived in Manchester. Their mission is to review the readiness of logistical and operational arrangements ahead of the inaugural flight. A detailed report is to be submitted by the delegation in due course.

This decision follows the lifting of the 2020 UK aviation ban on Pakistani air carriers because of safety concerns related to pilot licensing scandals. The ban was lifted on 16 July 2025 by the UK’s Air Safety Committee. Improvements in aviation regulation and standards were cited by the committee, which led to the lifting of the ban.

Ambitious expansion plans have been outlined by PIA. Following the initial Islamabad–Manchester route, the airline intends to extend services to London and Birmingham, subject to regulatory and operational clearances.

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Recently, PIA recorded its first operating profit in 21 years and is undergoing privatization; thus, the revival of UK flights is crucial for PIA. Several domestic and foreign investors have expressed interest as the government looks to divest up to 100% of the national carrier.

The resumption of flights offers faster, convenient travel for families, businesspersons, and students, as the UK is home to over 1.6 million people of Pakistani descent.

Between Pakistan and the UK, this development marks a long-awaited reconnection of air travel after more than five years since the suspension. A renewed chapter in bilateral aviation ties has been symbolized by this development.