Lahore, July 2, 2026:
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has launched its inaugural non-stop flight from Lahore to Manchester. Flight PK709 departed today from Lahore, marking the commencement of direct air services between the two cities.
A simple yet dignified inauguration ceremony was held at Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore. A cake-cutting ceremony was organized to commemorate the occasion, and PIA Chief Operating Officer, Khurram Mushtaq, bid farewell to the passengers before departure.
Passengers welcomed the restoration of direct air connectivity between Lahore and Manchester, describing it as a significant development for the Pakistani community residing in the United Kingdom. They expressed confidence that the resumption of direct flights would further strengthen people-to-people ties between Pakistan and the UK. The inaugural flight departed with 325 passengers on board.
Earlier, the first direct flight from Manchester to Lahore departed last night. The flight was seen off by PIA’s local management and officials of the Manchester Airport Group. The launch of direct Lahore–M
With the introduction of this new service, PIA now operates a total of five weekly flights between Pakistan and Manchester. Of these, four weekly flights operate from Islamabad, while one weekly flight operates from Lahore. This expansion will provide greater convenience and enhanced travel options for the Pakistani community living in the United Kingdom.
