ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will resume direct flights to the United Kingdom next month, after successfully completing all regulatory requirements and approvals, the national carrier’s spokesperson confirmed on Wednesday.

The airline has received formal Third Country Operator (TCO) authorisation from the British Department for Transport (DfT), marking a key milestone in restoring its connectivity with the UK. “In the first phase, direct flights will operate to Manchester, followed by the addition of Birmingham and London,” the spokesperson said.

PIA has also secured the Air Cargo Carrier 3 (ACC3) certification for its security and cargo operations, valid for five years. The certification, issued by international aviation safety bodies, reaffirms confidence in PIA’s operational standards and safety compliance.

PIA’s UK flights were suspended in 2020 after concerns raised by European and British aviation regulators over pilot licensing and safety management. The airline has since undergone extensive audits and reforms to meet international benchmarks.

Read More: Punjab govt announces special package for students affected by floods

The PIA chief executive expressed gratitude to the prime minister, defence ministry, civil aviation authorities, and other institutions for their support during the process.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s private airline Airblue has also received a TCO licence from the DfT, allowing it to launch direct flights from Pakistan to the UK. Airblue will operate its routes with Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, including a refuelling stop in Türkiye.