Introduction

Norse Atlantic Gets Green Light for Direct UK–Islamabad Flights, and that single update changes a lot for travellers. Pakistan’s aviation authority has approved the airline to operate direct services, starting with London.

Stick with us till the end, because this guide breaks down what it really means for your future travel plans.

Islamabad to Get Direct UK Flights Under Norse Atlantic Expansion

Norse Atlantic Airways has now received formal approval from Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority to begin direct flights to the country. The airline is expected to launch its service with a London to Islamabad route, while flights from Manchester and Birmingham are planned for a later phase.

The announcement was shared on January 1 by Pakistan’s Aviation Minister, Khawaja Asif. He welcomed the decision, saying the airline’s entry would finally introduce real competition. He added that this could lead to better service standards and more reasonable fares for passengers.

At present, British Airways is the only UK-based airline operating nonstop flights to Pakistan. Once Norse Atlantic starts operations, it will become the second carrier on this route.

Meanwhile, Pakistan International Airlines has also confirmed its return to the UK market. On December 30, the airline announced that it will restart direct flights from Islamabad to London from March 29 (further increasing choice for passengers).

It’s important to note that although Norse has received clearance to operate, this doesn’t mean flights will start right away. There are still several steps that need to be completed. These include:

• Filing schedules

• Securing airport slots in both countries

• Setting up ground handling

• Security checks

• Full commercial operations.

Why the UK–Islamabad Route Matters

The UK to Islamabad route is one of the busiest for Pakistani travellers living abroad. Many families and business travellers rely on it throughout the year. Limited flight options have led to high fares and inconsistent service. The entry of more airlines is expected to improve competition. This could bring down prices and raise standards for travellers on both sides.

Here are all the reasons why the UK to Islamabad route matters:

A huge community depends on it

More than 1.5 million British Pakistanis live in the UK, and many have deep family roots in Islamabad and nearby areas. When summer holidays or Eid arrive, flights fill up quickly (sometimes months in advance).

In the past, travellers were often forced to accept painfully high prices or endure long journeys with multiple stops. That has been the reality for years. A direct flight saves time and makes the entire journey calmer.

High prices became normal

Over time, expensive tickets between the UK and Islamabad stopped surprising anyone. With so few airlines operating direct flights, passengers had little bargaining power. During peak seasons, even economy seats could cost more than a thousand pounds. Many travellers felt the service did not always match the price tag.

People complained about delays and poor customer support. Still, they booked those flights because there was no real alternative. Choice was limited, and frustration became part of the experience.

Airlines now have to compete

For years, British Airways was the only UK airline flying directly to Islamabad. PIA was out of the picture, which left the route with almost no competition.

That balance is now shifting. Norse Atlantic has approval to operate, and PIA is returning to London. This changes everything. Airlines will now have to win passengers over (not just fill seats).

About Norse Atlantic Airways

Norse Atlantic Airways is a relatively new player in the aviation world, but it’s quickly gaining ground. The airline was founded in 2021 and operates under a simple but ambitious idea: to offer affordable flights using modern aircraft. Its entire fleet consists of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which are known for lower operating costs.

The airline operates globally, but what matters most here is its UK-based division (Norse Atlantic UK). This is the arm of the company that will handle flights to Pakistan. It holds a UK Air Operator Certificate, giving it full authority to run commercial flights from the United Kingdom.

Current UK to Islamabad Direct Flights

At the moment, British Airways is the only UK airline offering direct flights from London to Islamabad. The service operates from London Heathrow a few days a week and returns after a long break. For many travellers, it has been the only realistic nonstop option between the two cities.

That is now beginning to change. Pakistan International Airlines is expected to resume its London flights in March, and Norse Atlantic is also preparing to launch its own service. 

Conclusion

This approval marks a real turning point for UK to Pakistan travel. For years, passengers have dealt with high prices and limited options. Now, with Norse Atlantic entering the market and PIA returning to London, the route is finally opening up again. 

While there are still steps to complete before tickets go on sale, the direction is clear. More airlines bring a better balance and fairer fares. 

The UK–Islamabad connection is moving forward again, and this time, it’s moving in the right direction.