ISLAMABAD: After a gap of six years, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has formally restored its flight operations to London, marking a major milestone in the national carrier’s international network as its first flight departed from Islamabad carrying 325 passengers.
The inaugural flight, PK-785, was seen off at Islamabad International Airport in a simple yet dignified ceremony attended by Secretary Defence Lieutenant General Muhammad Ali (Retd) and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, alongside senior aviation officials and PIA management. A cake-cutting ceremony was also held on the occasion, while a lucky draw awarded a 660cc car to one fortunate passenger, with other travellers also receiving gifts. Speaking on the occasion, the Defence Secretary said the resumption of flights to London would further strengthen relations between Pakistan and the United Kingdom and enhance people-to-people connectivity between the two countries.
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British High Commissioner Jane Marriott congratulated PIA on the restoration of its London operations and appreciated the development.
PIA Consortium Chairman Arif Habib and other senior aviation officials also attended the ceremony held prior to the departure of the flight. PIA Chief Executive Officer presented commemorative shields to the distinguished guests. The national carrier has announced that it is committed to providing direct travel facilities to more than 1.6 million Pakistanis living in the United Kingdom. In addition to Islamabad-London operations, PIA will also begin weekly flights from Lahore to London from March 30.
According to the airline, it will initially operate four weekly flights between Pakistan and London, including three from Islamabad and one from Lahore.
Officials said the London route holds historic significance as it was the first international destination of PIA, marking a 71-year-long association with the UK capital. The PIA spokesperson said the restoration of the London route reflects renewed efforts to expand the airline’s international connectivity and improve services for overseas Pakistanis.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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