ISLAMABAD – Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to launch direct flights to Barcelona and Milan in the coming weeks, following the UK’s decision to remove Pakistan from its air safety list and the gradual revival of European operations. The move, directed by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, aims to ease travel for thousands of overseas Pakistanis while boosting trade and tourism links.

Why Barcelona and Milan Matter

Barcelona and Milan were selected due to their large overseas Pakistani communities and strong business connections.

  • Milan: Home to a significant Sialkot-origin population, many involved in trade and manufacturing.
  • Barcelona: A hub for overseas Pakistanis from Punjab and Azad Kashmir, with active business and student communities.

“Direct flights will save our people from exhausting layovers and high costs,” said Khawaja Asif, noting Milan’s importance to Sialkot’s business community.

PIA’s European Comeback

PIA’s return to Europe began after the UK lifted a five-year ban in July 2025. The restriction had been imposed in 2020 following a pilot licensing scandal under former Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan, which led to EASA suspending Pakistani airline operations across Europe.

Direct Flights to Barcelona and Milan

Recent Steps in the Comeback

  • July 2025: UK removed Pakistan from its air safety list.
  • Manchester Flights: PIA launched three weekly Boeing 777 services from Islamabad.
  • Planned Routes: Restoration of flights to London and Birmingham pending UK Civil Aviation clearance.

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott welcomed the reforms, saying, “I look forward to flying with Pakistani airlines again.”

Flight Plans and Operations

The Barcelona and Milan routes will operate using PIA’s Boeing 777 fleet, known for long-haul capacity and comfort.

Planned Features:

  • Direct flights from Islamabad and Lahore.
  • Affordable fares compared to connecting flights via Gulf or Turkish carriers.
  • Generous baggage allowance and full-service onboard experience.

Schedules and ticket sales are expected to be announced by PIA’s commercial division in the coming days.

Economic & Tourism Impact

Industry experts say the PIA Barcelona and Milan flights could boost:

  • Remittances: Easier visits mean higher remittance flow from overseas Pakistanis.
  • Tourism: Direct links will encourage European tourists to visit Pakistan’s heritage and scenic destinations.
  • Trade: Faster business travel and cargo transport for Pakistan’s exporters, especially from Punjab’s manufacturing hubs.
  • Cultural Exchange: More opportunities for bilateral events and collaborations.

Government’s Role

The European relaunch is part of a broader Pakistan aviation revival strategy. Authorities have worked to address safety, training, and compliance issues flagged by EASA and UK regulators.

“This is about restoring national pride and serving our diaspora,” said Khawaja Asif.

What This Means for Travelers

For passengers in Pakistan, Spain, and Italy, the changes mean:

  • No more long layovers in Istanbul, Doha, or Dubai.
  • Lower travel costs and more flight availability.
  • Easier family visits and shorter business trips.

Travel agents say demand for the new routes is already high, especially ahead of winter holidays.

Looking Ahead

PIA’s management is also considering:

  • Paris, Oslo, Copenhagen relaunches in 2026.
  • New York direct flights pending US clearance.
  • More regional connections in Middle East and Asia to strengthen competitiveness.

With six Boeing 777s now dedicated to international services, PIA’s leadership says the aim is to restore its 2010s-level European network.

Bottom Line– The launch of PIA’s direct flights to Barcelona and Milan signals a new phase in reconnecting Pakistan with Europe. Backed by regulatory reforms, government support, and growing passenger demand, the airline is taking a bold step toward reclaiming its international standing.