Substantial progress has been made toward the resumption of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to and from the UK, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said on Saturday.

At a press conference alongside Pakistani High Commissioner Mohammad Faisal in London, Dar expressed optimism about the resumption of PIA services, noting that he discussed the matter with British Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner.

“I raised the PIA issue in my meeting with Angela Rayner. It’s unfortunate how the previous government [PTI] managed PIA; however, we have made significant strides in addressing the situation,” Dar stated.

He added: “My visit has been potentially very beneficial for Pakistan. We have made every effort, including amending laws to meet the latest requirements set by the UK Aviation Authority, to facilitate the resumption of PIA flights.”

The suspension of PIA’s operations in the UK followed the 2020 revelation of pilots possessing questionable licences, which led the UK Civil Aviation Authority to revoke PIA’s operating permit at three airports. The European Union also halted PIA flights that same year.

Last month, Usman Akhtar Bajwa, the secretary of the Privatisation Commission, informed the Senate Standing Committee that the privatisation process for PIA was expected to be completed by October 1.

Dar, who is also the foreign minister, added that the government is “actively working” to privatise the Pakistan International Airlines and outsource operations at Islamabad International Airport. He emphasised that the process is on a “fast track” and is expected to be completed by October 10.

He praised British Pakistanis as “articulate, diverse, and vibrant contributors” to both their host country and Pakistan’s development.

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The deputy prime minister blamed the previous PTI administration for the PIA’s operational suspension, stating that an “irresponsible comment” from the former aviation minister led to the grounding of the airline’s flights.

Dar expressed hope that British Deputy PM Angela Rayner would assist in resolving the issue, calling it a “significant concern” for the diaspora. He also mentioned a recent meeting on August 24 with EU aviation officials where they presented Pakistan’s case.

While highlighting the political engagement of the British Pakistani community, Dar noted their substantial representation, including two cabinet members, 15 members in the House of Commons, 11 in the House of Lords, and numerous local councillors, mayors, and deputy mayors.