After 7 Years, PIA’s Flights Return to These Long-Awaited Routes

For years, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) remained grounded on some of its most significant routes, leaving many wondering if the airline would ever reclaim its position on the global stage.

Now, after a seven-year suspension, the national carrier is making a bold comeback, signaling a new chapter for Pakistan’s aviation sector and reconnecting communities that have long awaited its return.

In a landmark move, PIA will resume flights to the United States after a seven-year hiatus. The airline had previously operated six weekly flights, including four to New York and two to Chicago, before suspending operations in 2017.

This resumption marks a pivotal moment for the airline, which recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to settle outstanding financial obligations.

PIA is also gearing up to restart flights to Europe in January, with Paris as the first destination. The inaugural flight to Paris is scheduled for January 10, with bookings opening on December 9. This comes after the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifted its long-standing ban on the airline, paving the way for PIA to reestablish its presence on the continent.

Beyond Europe, PIA is setting its sights on the United Kingdom. The airline aims to secure approval from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to resume flights to major cities, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

If successful, these routes will reconnect thousands of passengers who have relied on alternative carriers during PIA’s absence. In parallel with its operational revival, the Pakistani government is pushing to privatise PIA through government-to-government agreements.

With a December 31 deadline, Abu Dhabi and Qatar have emerged as strong contenders for the airline’s ownership. Active discussions are underway, presenting a significant opportunity for foreign investment in PIA.