Pakistan International Airlines returns to Europe
January 12, 2025
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed flights to the European Union (EU), marking a significant milestone after a five-year hiatus.
The first flight, operating from Islamabad to Paris, departed on January 10. A second is scheduled for January 12.
The EU banned PIA flights in 2020 following safety concerns raised by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) after a fatal crash in Karachi and revelations about irregularities in pilot licensing.
Over the past three years, PIA has implemented stringent safety measures and overhauled its operations to meet international standards.
This long-awaited resumption of flights to EU destinations is a critical step for PIA as it seeks to rebuild trust and expand its global network.
The airline plans to gradually increase its European operations, catering to the significant Pakistani diaspora and promoting economic and cultural connectivity with the region.
The airline posted on Facebook: “Marking a historic milestone! Today, PIA proudly resumes its journey to Europe with the inaugural flight PK-749 from Islamabad to Paris, inaugurated by Chief Guest Khawaja Muhammad Asif [Pakistan’s aviation minister, pictured in the flightdeck].
“A momentous occasion celebrated in collaboration with Pakistan Post, as a special cancellation featuring the flight number was issued – a first in Pakistan’s philatelic history! Bringing hearts closer, connecting destinations, and writing a new chapter in our legacy.”
