Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will resume flights to Europe on January 10, 2025, ending a four-and-a-half-year suspension after the EU aviation regulator lifted its ban, the airline confirmed on Saturday.
The EU had revoked PIA’s authorization in June 2020, citing concerns over Pakistan’s ability to meet international aviation safety standards. The decision followed an investigation into pilot license authenticity triggered by a PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives.
PIA’s inaugural flight will depart from Islamabad to Paris on January 10 at 11:30 am, arriving in Paris at 4:00 pm. Return flights from Paris will leave at 6:00 pm and reach Islamabad by 5:00 am. Initially, the airline will operate two weekly flights on Fridays and Sundays, with plans to increase frequency gradually.
“The schedule allows passengers to enjoy breakfast in Pakistan and lunch in Paris,” a PIA spokesperson noted.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the lifting of the ban, calling it a boost for the airline’s reputation and finances. Government data shows the suspension cost PIA approximately 40 billion rupees ($144 million) in annual revenue.
Despite efforts to privatize the airline, the government received only one offer this year, falling short of expectations. PIA has pledged to adhere strictly to European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations moving forward.
