Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is the national airline of Pakistan, flying from Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore across Pakistan and to the Middle East, Asia and Europe. Economy passengers can bring a 7 kg cabin bag, and checked allowances on Gulf routes are generous. This guide covers power bank rules, check-in, the airline’s return to Europe and how it compares with Emirates and Qatar Airways.

The airline was formed in 1955 and was once one of Asia’s leading carriers. It flies Boeing 777s on long-haul routes, Airbus A320s on regional routes and ATR turboprops to smaller Pakistani airports.

Power Bank Rules on Pakistan International Airlines

Pakistan International Airlines follows the ICAO power bank rules in force worldwide since 27 March 2026:

• Carry power banks in cabin baggage only, never in checked bags.
• Up to 100 Wh is allowed without approval; 100–160 Wh needs approval from the airline.
• A maximum of two power banks per passenger, kept within reach. They cannot be recharged on board, and ICAO advises against using them to charge other devices during the flight.

Check-In in Pakistan

Arrive at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights. Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore airports have several security checks, so allow extra time, especially around Eid.

Families and Special Assistance

Infants under two travel on an adult’s lap, and bassinets can be requested on long-haul flights. Wheelchairs and other special assistance should be requested at least 48 hours before the flight.

Return to Europe

The EU banned the airline in 2020 after a crash in Karachi and a pilot licence scandal. Regulators lifted the ban in late 2024, and flights to Paris restarted in January 2025. The UK removed Pakistan from its air safety list in July 2025, and flights restarted to Manchester in October 2025 and London Heathrow in March 2026.

In 2026 a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation took a 75% stake and management control of the airline. Check the latest schedule before booking, as European and UK routes are still being rebuilt.

How to Find Cheap Pakistan International Airlines Flights

• Book early for Eid and summer, when Gulf routes fill up.
• Compare Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad for international trips.
• Use the generous Gulf baggage allowance instead of paying for extra bags.
• Check direct flights to Europe, which can save time.
• Compare airlines: use the FlightSelects flight search to see its fares next to Emirates, Qatar Airways and others.

PIA vs Emirates vs Qatar Airways

Three airlines popular with travellers from Pakistan.

See our Emirates guide and Qatar Airways guide to compare.

Arriving in Karachi

Jinnah International Airport is about 15 km from central Karachi. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the easiest way into the city, and traffic can be heavy.

You can also book an airport transfer in advance at a fixed price.

Is PIA a Good Airline?

It offers the most direct flights within Pakistan and to many Gulf cities, with generous baggage, though its fleet is older and punctuality varies.

Its return to Europe gives Pakistani travellers more non-stop options.

For more options, see our airline guides and the FlightSelects travel blog.

Facts checked in October 2026 against Dawn on the return to Europe and Wego on PIA’s privatisation and UK routes. Rules change, so check the official website before you travel.