Pakistan Airlines has officially received approval to relaunch scheduled services to the United Kingdom, ending a five-year suspension. The UK’s aviation authorities have granted clearance for both passenger and cargo operations, marking a major milestone for the national carrier.
In November last year, the European Union also lifted its restrictions on Pakistan Airlines, allowing the carrier to use EU airspace after meeting international aviation safety standards.
The return of UK flights is significant as large Pakistani communities live across Britain, creating high demand for reliable air connectivity. Pakistan Airlines confirmed that flights to Manchester will restart next month, followed by routes to London and Birmingham—three of its most profitable destinations.
Meanwhile, privatization plans for Pakistan Airlines are moving forward, with the process expected to be completed before the end of the year. The move is a critical condition of Pakistan’s $7 billion IMF bailout package.
The carrier recently reported its first pre-tax profit in 20 years, and the revival of UK services is expected to strengthen its financial outlook. Analysts suggest that profitable international routes will make Pakistan Airlines more appealing to private investors.
According to Reuters, potential buyers include Airblue, Lucky Cement, Arif Habib investment group, and Fauji Fertilizer, all expressing interest in acquiring stakes in Pakistan Airlines.
With renewed access to the UK market, profitability returning, and privatization on the horizon, Pakistan Airlines is entering a transformative phase that could redefine its global presence.
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