• Pakistan International Airlines to resume direct flights to European destinations.
• PIA’s first direct flight from Islamabad to Paris will take off in early January.
• The airline is preparing to expand flights to other European cities.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is gearing up to restart direct flights to European destinations early next month, following the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) decision to lift a long-standing ban, officials announced on Thursday.

The ban, imposed in 2020 after a tragic PIA crash in Karachi that claimed 97 lives, was lifted after EASA expressed satisfaction with the airline’s compliance with safety standards. The suspension had reportedly cost PIA approximately $150 million annually in lost revenue.

PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez confirmed that the first direct flight from Islamabad to Paris would take off in early January. He also revealed that preparations are underway to expand flights to other European cities.

EASA’s initial decision to impose the ban stemmed from concerns over the validity of Pakistani pilot licenses and Pakistan’s capacity to certify and oversee operators in line with international safety standards.

Travel agents have reported a surge in inquiries regarding the new flights, signaling strong interest from passengers eager to reconnect with Europe. Hafeez assured that PIA would soon announce a comprehensive flight schedule for additional European destinations.

“If you have your breakfast in Pakistan, you will be having your lunch in Paris,” Hafeez remarked, highlighting the convenience of the resumed service.

This development marks a significant milestone for PIA as it reestablishes links with key European markets after more than four years.

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