ISLAMABAD – Pakistan is moving closer to restoring its long-awaited direct flight operations to the United States, as the government and aviation authorities ramp up efforts to meet international safety and regulatory standards.
Minister of Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif confirmed on Monday that discussions with American aviation authorities are progressing positively, expressing optimism that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will soon receive approval to resume non-stop flights to the U.S. The development follows the recent green light for the airline to restart operations to the United Kingdom, a significant milestone after years of restricted international routes.
Speaking to a private TV channel, Asif said the government is determined to restore Pakistan’s aviation credibility and expand global connectivity. “We’re focusing on ensuring compliance with international safety benchmarks. Once these are met, Pakistan will be able to reconnect with major global destinations,” he added.
A PIA spokesperson described the potential resumption of direct U.S. flights as a major relief for passengers, especially Pakistanis living in North America who currently face long and costly transit journeys. “There’s a strong demand for direct routes,” the spokesperson said, noting that the move could also help PIA reclaim a valuable share of the transatlantic market.
Direct flights between Pakistan and the U.S. were suspended in 2017 due to safety and regulatory concerns, forcing travelers to rely on connecting flights via the Middle East and Europe. Restoring this service would not only reduce travel time but also make fares more competitive, benefiting both travelers and the airline’s revenue stream.
FAA Audit Holds the Key
A recent audit by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been a critical step toward the restoration of direct flights. The visiting FAA team reviewed pilot licensing procedures, safety oversight mechanisms, and compliance with international aviation standards.
Officials from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said they have made extensive preparations for the audit, tightening pilot certification systems, improving flight safety monitoring, and aligning all operations with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. “This audit isn’t just about technical compliance it’s about rebuilding trust and showing that Pakistan can meet the world’s strictest safety criteria,” a senior CAA official said.
If the FAA grants Pakistan a Category 1 status, PIA will regain the right to operate direct flights to key U.S. cities, including New York, Washington D.C., and Chicago.
PIA’s Privatisation and Revival
Meanwhile, the government’s broader plan to revive PIA remains closely tied to its privatisation drive. The process is expected to be completed by November 2025, with four shortlisted bidders currently forming consortia with established international airlines to ensure operational strength and transparency.
Facing over $2.3 billion in accumulated debt, PIA’s restructuring aims to introduce professional management and restore financial stability. Officials said that between 51% and 100% of the airline’s shares, along with management control, will be offered to the winning consortium later this year.
Lawmakers and aviation analysts view privatisation as essential to PIA’s survival, calling it a necessary step to modernize operations and make the airline globally competitive once again.
With safety upgrades underway, the FAA audit nearing completion, and privatisation plans advancing, Pakistan’s dream of reconnecting directly with the United States may soon take flight again marking a hopeful new chapter in the country’s aviation history.
