Early in 2026, Norse Atlantic Airways got the green light from Pakistani authorities to begin nonstop flights to Islamabad. Approval came via its British branch, cleared by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority on January 2nd. Instead of waiting years down the line, the airline moved fast after the go-ahead.
A New Airline Enters the Sky
One key figure behind the reveal was Khawaja Asif, Pakistan’s Defence Minister, who shared details publicly. Notably, this makes Norse only the second UK operator with direct routes into Pakistan. British Airways held that spot alone until now. With these changes, passengers may see more choices when flying between the two countries. Cheaper tickets could follow, though nothing is guaranteed. Travel times might shrink thanks to fewer stops. While some carriers avoid such paths, Norse sees room to grow. In the past, Pakistan International Airlines also offered amazing deals to and from this route, but their most recent developments include a stopover in Istanbul. Read more about that here.
For now, plans focus on links from big airports across Britain. Connections like these often shift how people visit family or explore destinations. Air travel rules still apply, even if schedules get easier. Over time, steady demand could reshape flight offerings further if Pakistan gives Norse Atlantic permission to fly into Islamabad. Flights can now begin under the new authorisation.
The airline adjusts schedules following approval. Travel routes open after regulatory green light. Islamabad welcomes the carrier’s arrival. Operations start as rules are met. A Nordic company enters Pakistani airspace legally.
Improving Links and Travel
A green light now lets Norse Atlantic UK fly straight from Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham to Islamabad. These trips will happen on sleek Boeing 787-9 jets that sip less fuel than older models. Though no firm start day is set, flights should begin sometime in early 2026. That timing fits with renewed flight connections between the UK and Pakistan after a half-decade halt on Pakistani airlines landing there. New routes like these match how the carrier picks busy paths tied to big overseas communities and stronger trade flows
Starting again, Pakistan International Airlines now flies to Manchester three times each week. This airline, just made private, aims for London four days a week beginning March 29, 2026. A new carrier, Norse Atlantic, could shake things up. Lower prices might follow. Travel comfort may rise too as fresh path opens up across the ocean, making trips easier for those living in the UK – especially millions with roots in Pakistan. Flying becomes simpler thanks to affordable fares on updated planes, a move by Norse Atlantic targeting holidaymakers alongside workers needing quick crossings. Instead of winding routes, shorter journeys now come at lower prices, shifting how some may plan visits back home
Surprising numbers show Pakistan welcomed far more travellers in 2023 than before, jumping 115 per cent after global restrictions eased. Behind this rise is a steady effort to bring attention back to the country’s travel appeal. Data comes from an organisation tracking worldwide tourism trends. Forecasts suggest the upward climb will keep going through 2026. New air routes linking Britain directly to local hubs might spark even greater interest. Tourists may soon wander busy city streets in Lahore or Islamabad. Others could head toward rugged northern areas known for bold outdoor experiences. Movement across borders feels easier now. Interest grows quietly but steadily
Cultural Impact and Rising Tourism in Pakistan
A journey through Pakistan unfolds layers of tradition shaped by early human settlements, such as the Indus Valley – dating back thousands of years – combined with grand designs left behind during Mughal rule. Monuments, including Lahore’s Badshahi Mosque, completed in 1673, stand alongside Thatta’s Shah Jahan Mosque, revealing moments where faith, craft, and time meet. These sites pull travellers into deep encounters with stories carved in stone. World
High up in the mountains, a road links China and Pakistan through wild peaks, green valleys, and open fields that feel like stories come alive. This route, known by some as an eighth wonder, draws travellers who love nature and a real outdoor challenge. Numbers show more people arriving than ever before – two million foreigners stepped into Pakistan during 2025 alone. That marks a jump of three out of every ten compared to the year before. Money flowing in from visits reached around two-and-a-half billion dollars, official tourism figures reveal. Flying across Europe with cleaner planes, Norse Atlantic helps cut down pollution while opening paths toward northern regions. Their fuel-smart jets could bring one-fifth to nearly a quarter more guests from Britain over time
A green light for Norse Atlantic Airways in Pakistan
This new deal marks fresh momentum between the UK and Pakistan by air. New travel routes begin taking shape as flights gear up to roll out. Choices multiply for those planning trips, simply because more seats become available. Experience shifts when people gain straight paths into historic cities and mountain views without long detours. Announcements about exact departure times will appear online through Norse Atlantic’s page or local civil aviation channels.
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