UK-Pakistan Air Connectivity Restored With London Flights to Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad
LONDON – Virgin Atlantic is set to resume flights to Pakistan this October, reconnecting London with three of Pakistan’s major cities — Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad — after a two-year suspension. The British carrier, which had ceased its Pakistan operations in 2023, announced the relaunch as part of its efforts to expand international routes and restore key travel links.
According to the airline, direct flights will be operational next month, reinstating critical air corridors between the UK and Pakistan. These routes had previously served thousands of passengers, particularly from the Pakistani diaspora in Britain, and are expected to ease travel and boost people-to-people and business ties between the two nations.
Expanded Access Via Riyadh, Backed by Civil Aviation Approval
Virgin Atlantic also revealed that its services to Pakistan will include expanded route options via Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This strategic addition allows travellers increased flexibility and smoother connectivity between London and various destinations across South Asia and the Middle East.
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has officially granted operational approval to Virgin Atlantic, clearing the regulatory path for its return. The decision underscores renewed confidence in international airlines investing in Pakistan’s aviation sector and supports broader efforts to enhance global connectivity post-pandemic.
Virgin Atlantic’s re-entry into the Pakistani market is expected to increase competition, improve service quality, and offer more flight options to travellers—especially during peak travel seasons and holidays.
The airline’s return is being welcomed by frequent fliers and members of the British-Pakistani community, many of whom rely on dependable flight routes for family visits, business travel, and tourism.
