Islamabad: Pakistan International Airlines resumed its flight operation for the United Kingdom with the inaugural flight departed for Manchester today. Addressing the ceremony in Islamabad, Defence Minister Khwaja Muhammad Asif said the operation will be extended to Birmingham and London as well.

According to Radio Pakistan, Khwaja Asif highlighted the government’s intensive efforts for restoring the service which include a complete overhaul of safety procedures, pilot training, licensing, and plane maintenance to align with world-class aviation body standards. The Defence Minister said these flights will offer affordable and time-saving travel for the approximately 1.4 million overseas Pakistanis residing in the UK and Europe.

He said the government is committed to restore and expand the national flag carrier’s global network. Khawaja Asif reaffirmed the government’s resolve to make PIA a profitable institution.