Five Boeing aircraft to be leased by PIA for UK, European operations

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) held a board meeting at its Islamabad head office, where the airline’s new owners discussed key financial and operational matters related to its revival.

The board approved leasing two Boeing 777 aircraft from European carrier Norse Atlantic for a period of six months.

The board also approved the acquisition of three additional aircraft on a dry lease. According to sources, the leased Boeing aircraft will be deployed for PIA’s operations on routes to Europe and the United Kingdom.

During the meeting, the board directed officials to speed up the procurement of spare parts needed for PIA aircraft. Financial, operational and other matters concerning the airline were also reviewed.

Meanwhile, PIA has announced an increase in its London operations, raising weekly flights between Pakistan and the UK capital to seven from October 27. The airline will operate five weekly flights from Islamabad and two from Lahore to London.

PIA currently operates four weekly flights to London, meaning the new schedule will provide daily connectivity with the British capital.

The airline said the increase is aimed at meeting rising passenger demand and providing greater flexibility, particularly for overseas Pakistanis travelling between Pakistan and the UK.

The expansion has been made possible following the return of slots at London Heathrow Airport that had previously been allocated to foreign airlines. PIA said the additional flights will strengthen connectivity and expand its presence on the important Pakistan-UK route.