Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is increasing its London Heathrow service for the coming winter, adding frequencies from both Islamabad and Lahore. The changes, filed for the launch of the Northern winter 2026/27 season, take effect from 25 October 2026 and are operated by the carrier's Boeing 777-200ER widebody.
On the Islamabad–London Heathrow route, service rises from three to five weekly flights. The Lahore–London Heathrow link, meanwhile, doubles from one to two weekly flights. Both increases are scheduled from the start of the winter timetable.
The additions reflect PIA's continued rebuilding of its long-haul network to the United Kingdom, a market with deep cultural and family ties to Pakistan. London Heathrow is among the most sought-after slots in the world, and expanded frequencies there are significant for any carrier serving the airport.
The Boeing 777-200ER is the long-range workhorse of PIA's widebody fleet, offering the range and capacity needed for nonstop flights between Pakistan and Western Europe. The type has long anchored the airline's premium long-haul operations.
Strengthening Heathrow service is part of a broader effort by PIA to restore and grow international flying. The UK routes carry substantial visiting-friends-and-relatives demand, and additional weekly flights give passengers more choice of travel days in each direction.
Adding capacity from two Pakistani gateways — the capital Islamabad and the Punjab hub of Lahore — allows the airline to serve distinct catchment areas while concentrating its widebody flying on a single high-value London airport.
As with all seasonal filings, travellers should confirm the exact operating days and timings with the airline, as schedules can be refined ahead of the winter start.
Sources: AeroRoutes. Featured image: AI-generated by AviationShop. By James Holloway.
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