Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is gearing up to introduce direct flights to two prominent European cities, Barcelona and Milan, marking a significant step in the airline’s post-reopening strategy. The decision follows guidance from Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who emphasized the importance of connecting with cities hosting large Pakistani communities.
The airline’s European operations had been on hold for several years, making this expansion a notable milestone in restoring international connectivity. According to sources, Milan is particularly significant due to its substantial population of Pakistanis from Sialkot, the hometown of Minister Asif, highlighting the cultural and economic ties driving the route selection.
This development comes on the heels of a breakthrough in international aviation relations. In July, the United Kingdom removed Pakistan from its air safety blacklist, ending a five-year restriction that had kept Pakistani carriers out of British airspace. British High Commissioner Jane Marriott praised the collaborative efforts of both countries’ aviation authorities and expressed enthusiasm about flying with Pakistani airlines.
Following the UK’s green light, PIA quickly resumed flights to Manchester, operating three weekly services with Boeing 777 aircraft. The airline’s next phase aims to restore Islamabad and Lahore flights to London and Birmingham, pending regulatory approvals. Analysts suggest that these moves could strengthen Pakistan’s ties with Europe while catering to the growing travel demand among overseas Pakistanis.
