PIA to Resume Direct London Flights from March 2026 After Securing Heathrow Slots

Pakistan International Airlines is preparing to restore direct flights to London starting March 2026 after securing approval for four weekly landing and takeoff slots at Heathrow Airport, one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. The development marks a major step in the airline’s efforts to rebuild its international network and regain access to high-demand routes.

PIA resumed its UK operations in October after British authorities lifted a five-year ban on Pakistani airlines, which had been imposed over safety and regulatory concerns. Since then, the national carrier has been gradually expanding services to the United Kingdom, with the planned London flights expected to significantly boost passenger connectivity, particularly for the large Pakistani diaspora in Britain.

The timing of the announcement closely follows a major ownership and restructuring milestone. The Arif Habib Consortium, now joined by Fauji Fertiliser Company, has acquired a 75 percent stake in PIA as part of the government’s privatisation process. Under the agreement, the consortium has committed to an investment of Rs125 billion aimed at modernising the airline’s operations, improving service quality, and restoring financial stability.

As part of its turnaround strategy, the new ownership plans to dramatically expand PIA’s operational fleet. The number of active aircraft is expected to rise from the current 18 to around 62 over the coming years, allowing the airline to increase flight frequencies, open new international routes, and improve reliability across its network.

Officials said the privatisation deal is now in its final stages, with approvals from the Privatisation Commission and the federal cabinet expected shortly. Once these approvals are secured, the parties will move toward formal contract signing and financial closure.

The resumption of direct London flights is being viewed as a symbolic and practical milestone for PIA, reflecting renewed international confidence and signaling the airline’s intent to reclaim its position in key global aviation markets.