Airblue has submitted a written application to the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to operate flights to the UK, sources indicate. The airline plans to launch flights between Islamabad and Manchester starting in August.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) had previously submitted its application for UK flights and, along with Airblue, is currently awaiting permission from the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority to begin operations.
Just a few days prior, the United Kingdom officially removed Pakistan from its air safety list, paving the way for Pakistani airlines to resume operations in British airspace after a five-year ban. This development has generated a wave of relief and optimism among aviation authorities, passengers, and Pakistani communities abroad.
The announcement was made by the British High Commission in Islamabad, where High Commissioner Jane Marriott commended the collaborative efforts of aviation experts from both countries. She stated, “I look forward to traveling with Pakistani airlines.”
Following the UK’s decision, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has swiftly begun preparations to resume direct flights to the UK. In the initial phase, PIA will operate three weekly flights to Manchester using Boeing 777 aircraft.
