Business Desk 
Sep 24, 2025
A PIA plane at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, Pakistan January 29, 2024. — Reuters
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has received official approval from the UK Department for Transport to operate as a Third Country Operator, which establishes the company to operate direct flights between Pakistan and the UK, resuming a long-standing service.
PIA revealed it would operate flights next month to restart its UK operations, starting with services to Manchester, later introducing Birmingham and London during the next phase of commencing scheduled services, as PIA works to re-establish its presence in one of the airline's most popular international markets.
UK authorities formally communicated with PIA that the airline was approved for Third-Country Operator operation this week, granting PIA full authority to operate direct flights, both passenger and cargo flights.
The Department for Transport also granted PIA a five-year ACC3 Certificate for its security and cargo operations.
Aviation regulators have suggested that these approvals reflect the restored confidence in PIA's safety processes and operational standards that had been under review for many years.
The CEO of PIA thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister, Defence Minister, Ministry of Defence, Civil Aviation Authority, and all supporting agencies for their them in receiving the approval.
He also praised the PIA team, acknowledging their perseverance in completing multiple international audits over the past five years.
“This milestone is the result of persistent efforts and teamwork, and it positions PIA once again to directly connect Pakistan with the UK,” the CEO said.
