Pilotcenter.net News: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) successfully launched its first flight to Paris in four years, marking a significant milestone following the lifting of the ban from European Union airspace. The departure of the PIA Boeing 777-200ER, registered as AP-BGK, from Islamabad International Airport on January 10, 2025, was met with excitement as the airline resumed operations to the EU. The aircraft, adorned with a stunning display featuring the Eiffel Tower on its tail and 'I love Paris' on its nose, is set to touch down at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport at 16:23 local time.

After diligently meeting the stringent safety standards set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), PIA received the green light to operate two weekly flights between Paris and Islamabad, making it the sole airline connecting these two capital cities. The ban, initially imposed in June 2020 following safety concerns post a tragic crash, was finally lifted in November 2024, allowing PIA to re-establish its presence in European skies.

Looking ahead to 2025, PIA has ambitious plans to revitalize its fleet by reintroducing previously stored aircraft, including eight Boeing 777s, 12 Airbus A320s, and three ATRs. A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism for the future, highlighting the airline's commitment to expanding its network and achieving exceptional on-time performance, which currently stands at an impressive 90%, the highest in the country.

This successful venture back into European airspace not only signifies PIA's commitment to upholding safety standards but also opens up new opportunities for passengers traveling between Islamabad and Paris. The airline's dedication to enhancing its operations and maintaining top-notch service sets the stage for a promising year ahead.