Pakistan International Airlines set to resume European flights after ban lift

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume its direct flights to European destinations starting January 10, 2024, following the lifting of a ban that lasted more than four years. This ban was imposed by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) in June 2020 after the tragic crash of a PIA flight in Karachi, which resulted in the loss of 97 lives. The ban led to significant financial hardship for the airline, costing around $150 million per year, and was rooted in concerns over Pakistan's ability to monitor and enforce aviation safety standards, particularly regarding the validity of pilot licenses. The decision to allow PIA back into European airspace comes after extensive evaluations by the EASA, which reported restored confidence in the safety standards of the Pakistani aviation industry. Airline officials noted that EASA has expressed satisfaction with the improvements made, paving the way for the airline to operate flights again. Initially, PIA plans to run two weekly flights between Islamabad and Paris, offering travelers connections between Pakistan and Europe for the first time since the ban. This resumption marks a critical phase for PIA as it seeks to restore revenue and re-establish its international reputation. In addition, while PIA aims to reinstate its flights to Europe, the airline is also looking towards extending its routes to the UK after obtaining the necessary clearances from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). The regulatory body has communicated that it hopes to allow PIA flights to the UK soon, with confirmations required that safety benchmarks are met. The airline's previous routes to the UK included key destinations such as London Heathrow, Manchester, and Birmingham, all vital links for travelers. The resumption of services is not just a financial lifeline for the PIA but also a symbol of its commitment to enhancing its operational standards and rebuilding trust with global aviation authorities. With about 34 aircraft grounded during the ban and accumulating liabilities, PIA is under pressure to demonstrate operational reliability and safety compliance. This ambitious campaign to re-establish its European flights comes at a crucial time as the airline prepares for potential privatization, aimed at overcoming its extraordinary debts and revitalizing its operational capabilities.