PIA to resume direct London flights from March 2026

WEB DESK: Pakistan International Airlines has announced the expansion of its UK operations, with direct flights to London set to resume from March next year, sources said on Thursday.

The national flag carrier restarted UK operations in October after Britain lifted a five-year ban on Pakistani airlines in July, allowing them to apply for resumption of flights. PIA has now secured approval for four weekly flight slots at London’s Heathrow Airport.

Sources said these slots had earlier been temporarily allocated to Turkish Airlines to keep them active during the period when PIA’s UK operations were suspended, ensuring they were not forfeited. With restrictions eased, PIA has formally informed Heathrow Airport in writing of its decision to restart direct London flights from March 2026.

The development comes amid major progress in PIA’s privatisation process. Earlier this week, a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation emerged as the top bidder for a 75% stake in the airline after submitting a Rs135 billion bid, surpassing a rival offer by a Lucky Cement–led group during a live televised auction.

Meanwhile, the Arif Habib–led consortium announced that Fauji Fertiliser Company Limited has joined the group, adding financial strength and corporate expertise. In a statement, the consortium said Fauji Fertiliser will be part of the airline’s management structure, and that Rs125 billion will be invested in the first year to upgrade ground operations and overall services.

The consortium also plans to significantly expand PIA’s fleet, increasing the number of operational aircraft from 18 to 62.

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A day earlier, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Privatisation Muhammad Ali told Reuters that the government expects the new owner to begin running the airline by April, subject to regulatory approvals.

The privatisation process now moves to final clearance by the Privatisation Commission board and the federal cabinet, expected within days. Contract signing is likely within two weeks, followed by a 90-day period to achieve financial close and meet legal and regulatory requirements.