ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s aviation sector has received a major boost as thePakistan Civil Aviation Authority granted formal approval to Norse AtlanticAirways to commence operations with direct flights to Islamabad. Thedecision announced on January 1, 2026 by Federal Defence and AviationMinister Khawaja Asif promises enhanced international connectivity betweenPakistan and the United Kingdom. This development arrives shortly after theprivatization of Pakistan International Airlines and signals growingconfidence in the country’s aviation infrastructure amid efforts to attractmore foreign carriers.
The approval allows Norse Atlantic, a low-cost long-haul operator known forits Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, to launch services from key UK citiesincluding London, Manchester and Birmingham to Islamabad. Reports fromcredible sources indicate that the airline will initially focus on theseroutes with potential for four weekly frequencies in the early phase. Themove addresses long-standing demands from the large British-Pakistanidiaspora for more direct and affordable travel options between the twocountries.
CAA officials emphasized that the entry of this additional foreign carrierwill foster greater competition in Pakistan’s international aviationmarket. Industry experts believe increased competition often results inimproved service quality and more balanced airfares benefiting passengers.British Airways already maintains services to Pakistan making NorseAtlantic the second major UK-linked operator on these routes furtherdiversifying choices for travelers.
The initiative is expected to generate positive economic impacts includingnew employment opportunities in ground handling aviation services andtourism-related sectors. Enhanced connectivity is anticipated to stimulatebusiness travel tourism and family visits particularly given thesignificant Pakistani community residing in the United Kingdom estimated atover 1.6 million people. Aviation analysts view this as a step towardreviving Pakistan’s position as a regional aviation hub following years ofchallenges.
The Islamabad International Airport terminal serves as the primary gatewayfor these incoming international flights featuring modern facilities thatsupport expanded operations.Federal Minister Khawaja Asif welcomed thedevelopment through a post on X confirming the designation approval andstating that the increased presence of international airlines will promotea competitive environment leading to world-class services. Although someonline commentary noted that Norse Atlantic originates from Norway ratherthan the UK the operational approval pertains to its UK subsidiary ordesignated services aligning with bilateral aviation agreements.
This approval forms part of broader efforts to revitalize Pakistan’saviation landscape. Recent developments include PIA’s resumption ofManchester flights and planned return to London Heathrow in March 2026following privatization. Authorities appear focused on attracting morecarriers to expand routes and frequencies in the coming months.
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Experts anticipate that the new services will contribute to tourism growthby facilitating easier access to Pakistan’s cultural heritage sites andnatural attractions. Business communities in both countries are expected tobenefit from reduced travel times and costs strengthening bilateral tradeand investment ties.
Source:https://tribune.com.pk/story/2585083/norse-atlantic-cleared-to-launch-direct-services-to-islamabad-from-uk
Tags: Pakistan, United Kingdom, Norse Atlantic Airways, Pakistan CivilAviation Authority, Islamabad International Airport
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