ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume direct flights to London after a six-year suspension, marking a significant step in restoring international connectivity for the national carrier and offering long-awaited convenience to travelers between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
A PIA spokesperson said the airline will restart operations with its inaugural Islamabad–London flight on March 29, followed by the launch of Lahore–London services a day later on March 30.
The flights will operate to London’s Heathrow Airport, arriving at Terminal 4.
In the initial phase, PIA will run four weekly flights to London—three departing from Islamabad and one from Lahore—using its Boeing 777 aircraft. The airline has indicated that flight frequency will be gradually increased in response to passenger demand and operational capacity.
Pakistan’s High Commissioner to London, Dr. Faisal, has announced that the first Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight will land at London Heathrow Airport on March 29. pic.twitter.com/bi3YSwC8kk
— Murtaza Ali Shah (@MurtazaViews) March 23, 2026
The resumption of this key route comes after services were halted in 2020, a disruption that significantly impacted travel options for Pakistanis living abroad as well as those commuting for business, education, and family reasons.
Before the suspension, PIA had maintained a robust schedule of 10 weekly flights between Pakistan and London.
Highlighting the importance of the route, the spokesperson noted that London has been one of PIA’s earliest and most historic international destinations, with a relationship spanning over seven decades.
With the revival of London operations, PIA’s total weekly flights to the United Kingdom will rise to seven.
The move is expected to not only ease travel for the Pakistani diaspora in the UK but also strengthen bilateral connectivity, boost tourism, and support economic ties between the two countries.
