The United Kingdom has removed Pakistan from its Air Safety List, enabling Pakistani airlines to reapply for flight permits to the UK. The announcement, made by the UK Air Safety Committee on Wednesday follows years of collaborative work between UK and Pakistani aviation authorities to address safety concerns that led to Pakistan’s inclusion on the list in 2021.

While Pakistani carriers can now submit applications, each airline must individually obtain the necessary permits from the UK Civil Aviation Authority.

The decision is expected to significantly benefit the over 1.6 million people of Pakistani heritage residing in the UK, as well as thousands of British nationals in Pakistan, by easing travel restrictions. It is also anticipated to boost bilateral trade between the two countries, currently valued at £4.7 billion, making the UK Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner.

The UK Air Safety Committee’s decision was based on an independent safety review confirming that Pakistan has implemented the necessary safety upgrades.

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts and anticipates the resumption of flights, stating her intention to use a Pakistani carrier for future travel.