Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) recently made a major comeback in Europe, operating its first flight to Paris in four years on January 10, 2025.

This marked a significant milestone for the airline, which had been banned from flying to European destinations due to safety concerns. However, despite this breakthrough, PIA’s hopes of resuming flights to the UK have hit a roadblock.

According to the UK government’s official Air Safety List, all Pakistani carriers, including PIA, remain banned from operating commercial flights to, from, or within the UK. The restriction states:

“All air carriers certified by the authorities responsible for regulating Pakistan are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the United Kingdom.”

Ongoing Safety Audits and Challenges

The UK CAA is conducting rigorous safety audits in collaboration with Pakistani aviation authorities to assess compliance with international standards. These evaluations focus on:

Operational safety measures

Regulatory compliance

Recent incidents involving PIA aircraft

Despite PIA’s efforts to improve safety protocols, recent incidents in early 2025—including one shortly after the Paris flight resumption—have raised fresh concerns, further delaying UK approval.

PIA’s Optimism for Future UK Operations

PIA remains hopeful about resuming UK flights and has implemented several key changes, including:

✔ Enhanced safety measures
✔ Major organizational restructuring
✔ Strict adherence to international aviation regulations

Abdullah Hafeez Khan, a PIA spokesperson, confirmed that if UK authorities grant approval, the airline will prioritize high-demand routes such as:

London Heathrow

Manchester Airport

Birmingham Airport

What’s Next for PIA?

While PIA celebrates its return to Europe, the UK’s cautious approach means the airline must continue proving its safety standards before flights can resume. For now, travelers between Pakistan and the UK must rely on alternative carriers.