PIA launches direct Lahore-Manchester flights, expands UK operations

WEB DESK: Pakistan International Airlines on Wednesday night launched direct flights between Lahore and Manchester, marking a significant expansion of its United Kingdom operations and restoring a key air link for the Pakistani diaspora.

The inaugural flight, PK-709, departed from Lahore with 325 passengers on board following a simple ceremony at Lahore airport, where a cake was cut to commemorate the launch. PIA Chief Operating Officer Khurram Mushtaq was present to see off the passengers before departure, according to a statement issued by the national carrier.

Improved connectivity for Pakistani community

Passengers welcomed the resumption of direct flights between Lahore and Manchester, describing the service as an important development for the large Pakistani community living in Britain.

According to the PIA spokesperson, the direct route is expected to strengthen people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and the United Kingdom while offering greater convenience to travellers visiting family, conducting business or travelling for other purposes.

The airline said the first flight from Manchester to Lahore had departed the previous night, where it was seen off by PIA’s local management and officials from Manchester Airport Group.

Expansion of international network

PIA described the launch of the Lahore-Manchester route as an important addition to its international network as it continues to expand services on key overseas destinations.

With the introduction of the new route, the airline now operates five weekly flights between Pakistan and Manchester. Four of those flights operate from Islamabad, while one weekly service departs from Lahore.

The national carrier said the expanded schedule would provide improved travel options for the Pakistani community in the UK and further strengthen air connectivity between the two countries.