London: The United Kingdom has removed Pakistan from its air safety list, effectively lifting restrictions on Pakistani airlines, the British High Commission announced on Tuesday.
With this development, Pakistani airlines can now apply for permission to operate flights to the UK.
The decision was made by the UK Air Safety Committee following improvements in Pakistan’s aviation safety standards, the High Commission stated.
However, airlines will still need to obtain operational approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority before starting flights.
The British High Commission clarified that Pakistan’s removal from the safety list followed an independent and technical evaluation process.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott thanked experts from both countries for their cooperation and said she looks forward to traveling on a Pakistani airline.
The High Commission added that enhanced air connectivity between the UK and Pakistan will facilitate family reunions and strengthen bilateral ties. The UK remains Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner, with annual trade valued at 4.7 billion pounds.
