PIA Returns To European Skies: Direct London Heathrow Flights Resumption March 2026

PIA Reconnects Europe: London Heathrow Operations To Restart March 29, 2026

The long-awaited return of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to the United Kingdom and European Union has reached a definitive milestone. Following a comprehensive safety audit and the lifting of the EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) ban, the national flag carrier is set to touch down at London Heathrow on March 29, 2026.

This development is a significant victory for the Pakistani diaspora in Norway, who have relied on expensive indirect connections through Middle Eastern hubs for over half a decade.

The 2026 Flight Schedule: London & Beyond

According to the latest official release from the Ministry Of Aviation, the initial phase of the revival will focus on primary hubs:

Why This Matters for Pakistanis In Norway

While direct flights from Oslo Gardermoen (OSL) to Islamabad are currently in the final stages of regulatory approval for Summer 2026, the London Heathrow resumption serves as a vital transit bridge.

• Lower Fares: The re-entry of PIA into the European market has already triggered a "price war," with competing airlines expected to lower fares by 15-20% for the upcoming Summer 2026 season.
• Generous Baggage: PIA has confirmed a standard 40kg Baggage Allowance for Economy Class on European routes, a major advantage for families traveling from Oslo or Bergen.
• Seamless Transit: With London Heathrow acting as a central node, travelers from Norway can now utilize interline agreements to connect with PIA's direct long-haul flights more easily than ever before.

Frequent Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I book a direct flight from Oslo to Islamabad with PIA right now?

Direct flights from Oslo are currently being finalized for the Summer 2026 schedule. For now, the most reliable route is connecting via London or Paris, where PIA has already resumed operations.

Q2: What are the baggage rules for the new 2026 European flights?

PIA offers 40 KG for Economy and 50 KG for Executive Economy. This is significantly higher than most Middle Eastern carriers currently serving the Norway-Pakistan route.

Q3: Do I still need an E-Visa for Pakistan if I travel from Norway in 2026?

Yes. While flight operations are expanding, the E-Visa requirement remains. We recommend applying at least 15 days before your travel date via the official NADRA portal.