ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially resumed flights to Europe after a hiatus of more than four years, marking a significant milestone for the national carrier. The first flight, PK 749, departed for Paris on Friday, fully booked, signaling renewed optimism for the airline’s future.
PIA’s authorization to operate in Europe was suspended in June 2020 due to concerns about Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority and its compliance with international aviation standards.
Federal Minister for Aviation Khawaja Asif, who bid farewell to the passengers at Islamabad International Airport, described the occasion as a pivotal moment for the airline. Speaking at a ceremony after the flight’s departure, he announced that PIA services to Europe had officially resumed, reconnecting Pakistan with the French capital.
The minister acknowledged that the suspension of PIA’s profitable European routes had dealt a severe blow to the airline’s operations, particularly affecting overseas Pakistanis who relied on its services.
Highlighting PIA’s historical role as a source of national pride, Asif noted that the airline once provided essential services, such as the free transportation of deceased Pakistanis back to their homeland. This service, however, had been discontinued, leaving many expatriates without critical support.
Asif expressed hope for the airline’s future, stating that the resumption of European routes was just the beginning. He confirmed that direct flights to the United Kingdom would be launched soon, further expanding PIA’s international reach.
He also suggested that privatizing PIA could be a viable solution to ensure its long-term profitability and sustainability.
“The green and white flag of Pakistan is once again flying in European skies,” Asif declared, celebrating the airline’s renewed presence in Europe.
The minister also criticized the negative impact of “irresponsible” statements made by a former minister about PIA, which had damaged the airline’s reputation over the years. He called for accountability, emphasizing that such remarks should not tarnish the image of the national carrier.
With 323 passengers on board, the successful takeoff of the first PIA flight to Paris is seen as a critical step in the airline’s recovery and a promising sign of its revival on the global stage.
