Direct UK connectivity restored as PIA launches limited weekly flights from Islamabad and Lahore to London.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the resumption of direct flights to London after a six-year suspension, marking a significant milestone for the national carrier and millions of Pakistani travelers in the UK.
According to a PIA spokesperson, direct operations from Islamabad and Lahore to London will begin later this month. The first Islamabad-London flight is scheduled for March 29, followed by the first Lahore-London service on March 30. Initially, Islamabad will operate three weekly flights, while Lahore will operate one, bringing the total to four weekly services in the launch phase.
All flights will be operated using Boeing 777 aircraft designed for long-haul international routes. The services will land at London Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 4, offering improved passenger facilities and faster immigration processing.
The London route has historically been one of PIA’s most important international connections. Before its suspension in 2020 due to regulatory and security-related challenges, the airline was operating up to 10 weekly flights on this sector.
Officials said the restoration of the route will gradually strengthen connectivity between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, with the possibility of additional frequencies in the future based on demand.
Aviation analysts believe the move could improve PIA’s international reputation while easing travel for families, tourists, and business passengers. Travelers have welcomed the decision, citing reduced travel time, lower costs, and less dependence on connecting airlines.
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