Business Desk 
Oct 21, 2025
In a move to reopen international routes, Pakistan is on the verge of re-establishing direct flights to the United States after getting permission for direct flights to the UK.
During an interview on a local TV channel on Monday, Pakistan's Federal Minister for Aviation Khwaja Asif shared that talks with US aviation officials are going well, and "Hopefully, permission will be granted soon." He further added that the government is working to meet international safety standards.
Additionally, a US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) team recently conducted a thorough safety audit in Pakistan, examining pilot licensing, regulatory compliance, and general flight-safety supervision.
A favourable result might allow Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to regain its Category 1 status, which is necessary for direct transatlantic flights, the minister added.
Simultaneously, PIA and Etihad Airways announced a codeshare agreement that will take effect on October 31. The agreement will include frequent-flyer programme coordination and passenger and cargo services, allowing passengers to reach destinations that PIA does not directly serve.
According to a PIA spokesperson, "this agreement marks a milestone for PIA," as it will improve service offerings and increase revenue.
After years of operational and financial difficulties, industry analysts see the action as a major step towards re-establishing PIA's credibility and a vote of confidence in Pakistan's regulatory reforms.
