Islamabad: After a five-year suspension, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed direct flights to the United Kingdom, with the first flight departing from Islamabad to Manchester carrying 284 passengers.

The Islamabad–Manchester flight marks PIA’s first UK operation since July 2020. The flight was seen off by Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott at a special ceremony held at Islamabad International Airport.

A simple yet dignified ceremony was organized prior to the flight’s departure, attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, diplomatic missions, and the aviation sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said the resumption of direct flights would strengthen relations between Pakistan and the United Kingdom and bring people of both countries closer together. He added that the service would provide better and more comfortable travel facilities — a longstanding demand of the over 1.6 million Pakistanis residing in the UK.

Read More: PIA returns to UK skies, first Islamabad–Manchester flight tomorrow

The minister directed PIA management to further improve flight schedules and cabin standards, and to take measures to increase the number of flights in the near future.

During the event, a 660cc car was awarded to one lucky passenger through a draw, while other passengers received mobile phones and special gifts. Commemorative shields were also presented to the distinguished guests by the PIA Chief Executive Officer.

PIA has initially launched two weekly flights to Manchester, operating on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with plans to gradually expand services to London and Birmingham in the coming months.