ISLAMABAD – Private Pakistani carrier Airblue has applied to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for approval to operate direct flights between Islamabad and Manchester, with plans to begin services as early as August, sources confirmed.
The development comes just weeks after the United Kingdom officially removed Pakistan from its air safety blacklist, ending a five-year ban on Pakistani airlines flying to British destinations.
PIA also preparing for UK return
Alongside Airblue, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has also requested permission to restart its UK routes. PIA plans to initially launch three weekly flights to Manchester, using its Boeing 777 fleet, once British authorities give the go-ahead.
Welcome news for Pakistani diaspora
The restoration of access to UK airspace has been widely welcomed by aviation officials, travelers, and the Pakistani community in Britain, who have long awaited the return of direct flights.
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott praised the collaborative efforts of aviation regulators from both countries and said she looks forward to “traveling with Pakistani airlines soon.”
What’s next?
If approvals are granted, Airblue would become the second Pakistani airline—after PIA—to operate flights to the UK, potentially increasing travel options and lowering fares for passengers on this busy route.
This marks a significant step toward rebuilding Pakistan’s aviation ties with Europe after years of restrictions following safety compliance concerns.
