After four years, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is getting ready to start direct flights to the UK on August 14. This is a big step forward.

For Pakistanis living in the UK and throughout Europe, the announcement is a blessing since it provides them with easy access to their country.

A PIA representative expressed optimism that the International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) would grant the carriers phase-wise approval this month. The representative discussed the airline's aims to grow its operations at a recent discussion with the Council of Economics and Energy Journalists.

The PIA stated that it had accelerated repair work on its fleet of 777 aircraft to ensure compliance with safety regulations and operational preparedness for European and UK flights, and that it will restart services to Paris next month as soon as the authorization was obtained.

According to PIA spokesman Abdullah Hafeez, the airline now operates seven 777 aircraft and intends to add two more within the next two months. 

He added that the PIA had air service agreements with an astounding 97 nations, allowing for easy international travel and commerce connections.

In the meantime, on May 14, the review board of the European Aviation Safety Agency will convene to discuss lifting the prohibition on Pakistani airlines, including PIA, from operating in Europe.

To attend the meeting, a high-level group headed by the aviation secretary will depart for Brussels on Sunday. At the IASA review board meeting, reports on audits of significant PIA and civil aviation sectors would be given. Additionally, the Civil Aviation Authority has completed the Universal Aviation Security Audit conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) with success.

However, the European Aviation Safety Agency's review of the CAA's jurisdiction in important areas has also been successful. Aviation insiders said there was a good probability the ban on Pakistani aircraft would be lifted.