LONDON : The UK’s Air Safety Committee announced the decision on Wednesday following a comprehensive review of Pakistan’s aviation standards and close technical collaboration with the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). The move allows Pakistani carriers, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), to now apply for the necessary approvals to restart direct services to the UK.
Pakistan was blacklisted in 2021 after a damning disclosure in 2020 revealed that several commercial pilots held dubious or fake licenses—an issue brought to light in the aftermath of the PIA Airbus A320 crash in Karachi. The scandal triggered international flight bans and widespread scrutiny of Pakistan’s aviation oversight.
Since then, authorities have worked to rebuild international trust in Pakistan’s aviation safety framework. The UK’s decision reflects the progress made through sustained reforms and oversight improvements by the PCAA.
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While Pakistani airlines can now apply to operate in the UK, actual resumption of flights will depend on further regulatory approvals from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
The development is expected to bring significant relief to the 1.6 million British residents of Pakistani origin, offering them better connectivity and easing travel for families and businesses alike. It also bodes well for strengthening bilateral trade relations, with the UK already Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner, contributing to a trade volume of £4.7 billion.
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