By Gary Raynaldo DIPLOMATIC TIMES

British Airways announced it will resume flights to Pakistan after a 10-year-absence, with service from Heathrow to Islamabad starting June 2, 2019.  Tickets are currently on sale, the airline said.  On Sep. 22, 2008, BA suspended all flights to Pakistan indefinitely following the suicide bomb attack on the Marriott hotel in Islamabad. The attack, killed more than 53 people and injured around 250, including six Britons.

“It’s exciting to be flying between Islamabad and Heathrow from next year, which we believe will be particularly popular with the British Pakistani community who want to visit, or be visited by, their relatives.

Robert Williams, Head of Sales for Asia Pacific and the Middle East.

The route will launch as a three-per-week service, operated on a three-class Boeing 787 Dreamliner, according to BA. The airline said the 787 Dreamliner is BA’s newest long-haul fleet that is 20 per cent more fuel efficient than other aircraft. Return fares start from £499 for World Traveller, £773 for World Traveller Plus and £1,799 for Club World.

BA Resumes London Heathrow To Islamabad, Pakistan Service As Security Improves

“I am delighted to be welcoming British Airways back to Pakistan. The launch of direct flights by British Airways between London Heathrow and Islamabad’s new International Airport is excellent news for both countries. The links between Britain and Pakistan are already extraordinary – from culture and cricket, to people, politics and education.  I see this launch as a vote of confidence in the future of those links – and, of course, a reflection of the great improvements in the security situation in Pakistan in recent years. “

Thomas Drew CMG, the British High Commissioner to Pakistan

Drew said the return of British Airways to Pakistan will give a particular boost to the UK’s growing trade and investment links.  BA joins an increasing number of British companies doing business in Pakistan.