Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will return to Birmingham Airport (BHX) on 1 December, resuming flights to Islamabad three times a week due to high demand from travellers from the Midlands and the resumption of UK services from the airline.
In 2025 more than 178,000 two-way passengers flew from Birmingham to Pakistan, via indirect services due to the absence of a direct connection. This new route will become the only direct service from the region to Pakistan, offering greater convenience and connectivity, whilst significantly reducing unnecessary travel times for Midland passengers.
With more than 320,000 people of Pakistani heritage living in the West Midlands, the route is expected to appeal strongly to the Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR) market, which represents a large share of travel demand between the UK and Pakistan.
The flights will be operated by a Boeing 777, with services scheduled three times a week from BHX on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
Matt Hazelwood, Chief Commercial Officer at Birmingham Airport, said, “We welcome PIA back to BHX as an airline partner. There are strong links between our region and Pakistan, with many people travelling to spend time with family and friends. With flights taking off three times a week, PIA will give passengers more choice and convenience when planning their journeys. We look forward to seeing the service get underway in December.”
“The resumption of Pakistan International Airlines’ direct flights between Birmingham and Islamabad is an important step in restoring PIA’s UK network and strengthening air links between Pakistan and the United Kingdom,” said Adrian Hamilton Mann’s CEO PIA, commenting on the Birmingham flight operations.
“With three weekly services operated by the Boeing 777, we aim to offer passengers greater convenience, comfort and reliable connectivity. Birmingham and the wider Midlands region are home to a significant Pakistani community, and this service will make it easier for overseas Pakistanis to reconnect with their families and loved ones. We are pleased to return to Birmingham and remain committed to expanding our international network and enhancing the travel experience for our valued passengers.”
Flight schedule:
ISB PK791 1215 hours – BHX 1600 hours
BHX PK792 1830 hours – ISB 0715 hours.
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