Pakistan International Airlines has received clearance to fly a PIA Boeing 787 in the country for the first time, after the Civil Aviation Authority finished inspecting the jet abroad. The national carrier plans to put the aircraft into passenger service at the end of October.
A CAA team led by Director General Nader Shafi Dar inspected the aircraft at Oslo Airport and granted permission for it to operate. Sources say the step is a milestone for the airline as it brings a modern wide-body type into its international network.
What the clearance covers
Officials have completed work on the first of three Boeing 787 aircraft earmarked for PIA. The second jet is due for inspection at Oslo Airport on Monday. The third is scheduled for a check at London Airport on 20 November.
Sources say that once those inspections are done, the remaining aircraft will be sent to London. The type can carry 358 passengers. The airline expects the three jets to deepen its long-haul offering and improve the quality of service on international routes.
First flight and new uniform
PIA will operate its first Boeing 787 flight on 31 October. The service, numbered PK-786, will depart London for Islamabad. The aircraft is expected to reach Islamabad with passengers on 1 November.
On the same day as the launch, the carrier will introduce a new uniform for staff, tying the visual refresh to the start of operations with the new type.
Timeline: what has happened so far
- Oslo Airport: CAA delegation completes inspection of PIA’s first Boeing 787 and grants operating clearance.
- Monday: Second Boeing 787 due for inspection at Oslo Airport.
- 31 October: First PIA Boeing 787 flight, PK-786, scheduled London–Islamabad; new uniform to be introduced.
- 1 November: Aircraft expected to arrive in Islamabad with passengers.
- 20 November: Third aircraft scheduled for inspection at London Airport.
Aasan alfaaz mein
PIA ko pehli dafa Boeing 787 chalane ki ijazat mil gayi hai. Pehli flight 31 October ko London se Islamabad jaayegi. Teen aircraft check ho rahe hain, is se lambi international journeys behtar ho sakti hain. Musafiron ke liye nayi plane aur nayi uniform dono launch ke din aane wali hain.
