PIA to restart US flights after 8 years hiatus

Celina Ali

Islamabad: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) prepares to restart flights to the United States after an eight-year hiatus.

An official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between PIA and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) addresses financial matters.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (CAA) Nadir Shafi Dar this week confirmed imminent financial settlements with the FAA. These payments will facilitate an anticipated FAA delegation visit to Pakistan in the upcoming months.

Resolving financial obligations demonstrates Pakistan’s commitment to meeting international aviation standards and regulatory requirements.

Strategically timed financial settlements and diplomatic negotiations indicate PIA’s proactive approach to regaining its position in the international air travel market.

The potential resumption of US routes could significantly impact the airline’s revenue streams and global operational network.

The ongoing negotiations increase Pakistan’s potential reclassification to FAA’s ‘Category One’ status, enabling direct US flight operations.

This classification represents a critical benchmark for international aviation compliance and operational standards.

PIA suspended its US routes in 2017, previously maintaining a weekly schedule of six flights. The airline’s route network included four weekly flights to New York and two to Chicago before the suspension.

Restoring these routes signifies a strategic recovery for Pakistan’s international air travel infrastructure.

The potential reclassification indicates the nation’s commitment to meeting rigorous international aviation safety and regulatory requirements.