People will soon be able to travel directly to Islamabad from Birmingham Airport as a popular flight route is set to return.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is returning to Birmingham Airport due to high demand from travellers in the Midlands.
From December 1, PIA will begin operating direct flights to Islamabad three times a week, offering the only direct service from the Midlands to Pakistan.
The decision comes in response to strong demand from travellers in the region and follows the airline’s reinstatement of UK routes.
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."
New Airline Announcement! ✈️🎉 We're delighted to announce that PIA will be returning to Birmingham Airport (BHX) on 1 December 2026. Due to high demand from travellers in the Midlands , direct flights to Islamabad will be resuming three times a week. 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. Tickets on sale now! Read more here 👉 https://t.co/UP1cVzSy5R
— Birmingham Airport (@bhx_official) November 3, 2026
In 2025, more than 178,000 passengers travelled between Birmingham and Pakistan via indirect flights, highlighting the need for a direct connection.
With a population of more than 320,000 people of Pakistani heritage in the West Midlands, the route is expected to be especially popular among those visiting friends and relatives.
PIA will operate the route using a Boeing 777, with departures from Birmingham scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
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Adrian Hamilton Manns, CEO of PIA, said: "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.
"With three weekly services operated by the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, 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."
Flights from Islamabad (PK791) will depart at 12.15pm and arrive in Birmingham at 4pm.
The return flight (PK792) will leave Birmingham at 6.30pm and arrive in Islamabad at 7.15am the following day.
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