ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will resume its flights to the United Kingdom, with the inaugural service to Manchester scheduled for October 25. This marks the airline’s return to UK airspace after a prolonged suspension.
The British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott, welcomed the news, describing the resumption as a historic milestone. She emphasized that PIA’s return to the UK will strengthen ties between the two nations, fostering enhanced trade and tourism opportunities. Marriott also praised PIA’s efforts in restoring the flight services, highlighting the positive impact on the Pakistani community residing in the UK.
Earlier, PIA achieved a notable milestone when it obtained a cargo license from the UK’s Department for Transport (DfT), following a successful joint audit by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and UK officials. This license allows PIA to carry cargo directly from Pakistan to the UK, expanding its international freight operations.
The cargo license, issued for a period of five years, is expected to boost trade connectivity and facilitate economic exchanges between Pakistan and the UK. The approval came after the airline’s compliance with rigorous safety and operational standards assessed during the audit concluded on June 30, 2024.
However, the audit report also raised concerns regarding PIA’s financial management. It pointed out that, as of the audit’s completion, certain outstanding dues remain unpaid. The report criticized the airline for lacking an effective recovery strategy and failing to convene a Departmental Accounts Committee (DAC) meeting before finalizing the audit. The auditors recommended that the Aviation Division take direct action to address the outstanding payments and ensure proper financial recovery measures are implemented.
