Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has served 104,845 passengers on its Manchester–Islamabad and Manchester–Lahore routes since launching the two services in October 2025 and July 2026, respectively.
The airline initially operated two weekly flights between Manchester and Islamabad after launching the route. It increased the frequency to four weekly flights following strong demand, with departures on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
In July 2026, PIA expanded its Manchester operations by introducing a weekly flight to Lahore. The service operates on Wednesdays. The two routes have also handled 1,541 tonnes of cargo, including 1,412 tonnes imported into the UK and 129 tonnes shipped to Pakistan.
The main imports included fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, pharmaceutical products, clothing and fabrics. Manchester Airport Managing Director Chris Woodroofe said the direct links connect communities in northern England with Pakistan while supporting regional economic development.
Yasmin Qureshi, MP for Bolton South and Walkden, welcomed the return of direct flights, saying they had made travel more convenient for British Pakistanis and provided greater flexibility for family visits.
Afzal Khan, MP for Manchester Rusholme, also described the routes as a boost for local communities and the regional economy. The services provide direct connections for the large British Pakistani community across northern England, including residents of Manchester and Bradford.
The post PIA Achieves Major Milestone on Manchester Routes appeared first on ProPakistani.