Pakistan has granted approval to UK-based airline Norse Atlantic to operate direct flights from London, Manchester, and Birmingham to Islamabad, bringing welcome news for Pakistanis living in the United Kingdom.
Confirming the development, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said the airline will soon launch non-stop air services connecting major UK cities with Pakistan’s capital. He noted that the move will improve travel convenience for overseas Pakistanis and strengthen air connectivity between the two countries.
The minister said that allowing more international airlines to operate flights to Pakistan will promote healthy competition in the aviation sector, leading to better services and more balanced airfares for passengers.
In a related development, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume direct flights to London Heathrow from March 29, 2026, after a gap of nearly six years. The resumption marks a significant milestone for the national carrier.
Officials said the progress reflects sustained efforts by Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority and PIA to restore the airline’s international standing, which had previously suffered due to an irresponsible statement made by a former aviation minister.
Khawaja Asif added that, initially, four weekly flights will be operated on the new routes, with plans to increase frequency in the future to better serve overseas Pakistanis and reconnect them with their homeland.
The announcement is expected to bring relief to thousands of travelers who rely on UK–Pakistan routes for family visits, business, and long-term travel.
