With air travel steadily resuming following recent Middle East tensions, travellers from the UK to Pakistan and India can now access a wider range of flight options. Whether you’re flying for family visits, business, or leisure, understanding the current airline routes and travel landscape is crucial for a smooth journey.
🌍 Latest Travel Situation: UK to Pakistan & India
Brief Overview of Middle East Airspace Disruptions
on 23/24 June 2025, regional airspace closures across parts of the Middle East—particularly Qatar, UAE, and Bahrain—led to flight delays and reroutes. These were triggered by escalating geopolitical tensions, causing some Gulf carriers to temporarily suspend operations or divert flights.
Fortunately, airspace has now reopened, and airlines have resumed most services. However, schedules may still be adjusted, and passengers are advised to check with their carriers for updates before travelling.
🇵🇰 Flying from the UK to Pakistan – Your Options
1. Direct Flights from the UK to Pakistan
British Airways offers direct flights from London Gatwick to Islamabad, operating multiple times per week.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is planning a return to UK routes. While direct UK–Pakistan flights by PIA are still pending regulatory clearance, PIA currently operates direct flights from Paris to both Islamabad and Lahore.
2. Connecting via Paris with PIA
For passengers in the UK, connecting via Paris is a smart option:
Fly from UK airports (e.g., London, Manchester, Birmingham) to Paris Charles de Gaulle with carriers such as British Airways, easyJet, or Air France.
Then connect to PIA’s direct flights to pakistan from Paris to Islamabad or Lahore—a reliable and comfortable alternative while UK–PIA direct service resumes.
3. One-Stop Gulf Carrier Options
Major Gulf airlines continue to provide robust one-stop options from the UK to Pakistan:
Emirates via Dubai
Qatar Airways via Doha
Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi
Turkish Airlines via Istanbul
Gulf Air, Kuwait Airways, Oman Air
- Saudi Airlines via Riyadh or Jeddah
These airlines operate out of major UK hubs including London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow, with daily departures and short layovers.
🇮🇳 Flying from the UK to India – What’s Available Now
1. Direct Flights from the UK to India
British Airways and Air India continue to operate non-stop services from London Heathrow to Delhi and Mumbai.
Despite some disruptions earlier this month, most India-bound services are now running as normal.
2. Connecting via the Middle East or Europe
Travellers can also opt for competitive one-stop flights through Gulf and European hubs:
Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, and Turkish Airlines offer consistent connectivity to multiple Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore.
These routes remain a cost-effective and flexible option, especially during peak travel periods.
📌 Summary: Best Routes to Pakistan & India from the UK
| Route | Airlines Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UK → Islamabad (Direct) | British Airways | Non-stop from London Gatwick |
| UK → Paris → Pakistan | PIA + UK–Paris flights | Direct PIA flights to Lahore & Islamabad via Paris |
| UK → Pakistan (1-stop) | Emirates, Qatar, Etihad, Turkish, Saudia etc. | Daily flights via Gulf hubs |
| UK → India (Direct) | British Airways, Air India | Non-stop to Delhi/Mumbai |
| UK → India (1-stop) | Gulf & European carriers | Options to all major Indian cities |
✅ Travel Tips for June–July 2025
Book early: Peak summer demand may affect seat availability.
Leave buffer time: Ongoing airspace caution may mean longer flight times or minor delays.
Check travel advisories: Ensure your travel insurance covers airspace disruptions or rerouting.
🎯 Book with Confidence – Mushtaq Travel Can Help
Looking for the best fares and flexible flight options to Pakistan or India?
Mushtaq Travel offers exclusive deals with trusted Gulf carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, and PIA (via Paris).
Whether you’re flying from London, Manchester, Birmingham or Glasgow, we can arrange:
Competitive fares
Smooth connections via Paris or Gulf hubs
Travel advice tailored to your needs
📞 Contact Mushtaq Travel today for a quote or to discuss your itinerary.