Pakistan International Airlines has restarted direct flights between Lahore and Manchester, ending a six-year suspension of the popular UK route.
The first flight, PK-771, departed Allama Iqbal International Airport this week with over 300 passengers on board.
The service will initially operate twice a week, every Wednesday and Sunday, using a Boeing 777 aircraft. PIA officials said the route was revived due to high demand from the Pakistani community in Greater Manchester and nearby cities.
Before the suspension in 2020, this was one of PIA’s busiest European sectors.
Passengers at the relaunch ceremony in Lahore were welcomed with flowers and a cake-cutting.
Many travelers said the direct option saves them 5 to 7 hours compared to connecting flights through Doha, Dubai, or Istanbul. One passenger from Wah noted, “My family in Manchester can now visit without the hassle of layovers. It’s a big relief.”
PIA’s Chief Executive stated that safety audits and compliance with UK and European regulators were cleared earlier this year, allowing the carrier to resume operations.
The airline also plans to restart direct flights to London and Birmingham from Lahore by late 2026 if passenger load remains strong.
The new schedule offers 40kg baggage allowance for economy and extra benefits for students and elderly travelers. Tickets are available online and through PIA offices, with introductory fares starting at Rs 155,000 return.
The Punjab government and overseas Pakistanis associations welcomed the move, saying it will boost tourism, family visits, and business ties between the two cities.
