PIA Pushes for Resumption of UK Flights
ISLAMABAD – PIA flight ban UK Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed that Pakistan is actively pursuing the removal of the flight ban on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) imposed by the United Kingdom. The assurance came during a recent meeting with PIA’s CEO Amir Hayat, as reported by state-run Radio Pakistan.
Ban Followed Karachi Crash and License Scandal
The UK, United States, and the European Union’s aviation authority had suspended PIA’s international operations after a May 2020 crash in Karachi that killed 97 people. Investigations revealed irregularities in pilot licenses, prompting international aviation bodies to restrict the airline.
EASA Ban Lifted; UK Yet to Approve
After the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifted a four-year ban, PIA began operating flights throughout Europe in January 2025. The UK has not yet given the airline permission to resume operations, though. During the meeting, CEO Amir Hayat requested Dar’s diplomatic support to speed up the process. Dar confirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains in regular contact with British officials to lift the restriction promptly.
UK Routes Vital to PIA’s Recovery and Sale
To boost sales and attract more new customers, PIA wants to reestablish itself in European markets, particularly the UK. The financially troubled airline, which still has problems because of poor management, political meddling, and operational inefficiency, is being supported by the government to be privatized.
Privatization Efforts Resume Amid Debt Crisis
Despite being one of Asia’s early aviation giants, PIA has been propped up by public funds for decades. Past privatization attempts failed due to union opposition, legal hurdles, and lack of investor interest. Now, under a $7 billion IMF agreement, Pakistan is pushing to privatize loss-making state-owned enterprises, including PIA.
The airline’s accumulated losses are reported at over $3 billion, while its assets are valued at around $572 million. A previous deal collapsed last year after a bidder offered only $36 million for a 60% stake—far less than the $303 million the government had expected.
Bidding Expected by October 2025
Encouraged by recent reforms in PIA’s financial structure, five consortiums have shown interest in acquiring between 51% and 100% of the airline. The government plans to hold final bidding by October and conclude the sale by the end of 2025.
