Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed direct flights to London after a six-year ban, and First Officer Farah Hussain made history by piloting the first London to Lahore flight.
The flight landed in Lahore on Sunday night, March 30, 2026. This marked an important moment for the national airline as it returns to one of its most important international routes.
PIA had been banned from flying to the UK in 2020 due to a fake pilot licences scandal. After years of efforts to improve safety standards and regulatory compliance, the ban was finally lifted, allowing PIA to restart operations.
First Officer Farah Hussain, who flew as co-pilot on this inaugural flight, received huge praise from passengers and on social media. Many called her “the new face of PIA” for her professionalism and for representing the airline’s revival. Her presence on the flight became a symbol of hope and a fresh start for the struggling national carrier.
PIA plans to operate four weekly flights to London initially, three from Islamabad and one from Lahore, using Boeing 777 aircraft. The resumption of these flights is expected to provide great relief to thousands of overseas Pakistanis who travel between Pakistan and the UK every year.
This successful return to London is seen as a positive step in PIA’s recovery under new management. Many hope it will help restore public confidence and improve the airline’s reputation.
