Business Desk 
Jul 16, 2025
In a major development, the UK's Air Safety Committee has officially lifted the ban on Pakistani airlines to operate in the UK by removing restrictions on Pakistani carriers, allowing them to apply for necessary permits.
The British High Commission announced on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, that airlines will still require permission for flights from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (UKCAA).
Removal from the safety list was carried out through an independent and technical process. British High Commissioner Jane Marriott stated: “I am looking forward to traveling with Pakistani Airlines.”
To note, this decision came after significant air safety advancements by Pakistani authorities, reversing restrictions first imposed in 2021.
“I’m grateful to aviation experts in the UK and Pakistan for their collaborative work to drive improvements to meet international safety standards. While it will take time for flights to resume, once the logistics are in place, I look forward to using a Pakistani carrier when visiting family and friends,” she added.
It is worth noting that over 1.6 million people of Pakistani heritage live in the UK, alongside thousands of British nationals residing in Pakistan, who will have an easier traveling.
Moreover, it may support increased bilateral trade, which currently stands at £4.7 billion, making the UK Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner.
