PIA Gets CAA Clearance to Fly Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Pakistan
PIA has CAA clearance to operate the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. First flight PK-786 London–Islamabad on 31 October; details of the Norse Atlantic deal.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has received clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to operate the Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Pakistan for the first time, after a CAA team inspected the first aircraft at Oslo Airport, ARY News reported on 25 October 2026. The first Dreamliner flight, PK-786, is scheduled to leave London on 31 October and land in Islamabad on 1 November.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Aircraft | Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (two aircraft) |
| Arrangement | ACMI deal with Norse Atlantic Airways (aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance) |
| Deal signed | October 2026 (APP, 9 October) |
| Route | Direct flights between the UK and Pakistan |
| First flight | PK-786, London to Islamabad, departing 31 October, arriving 1 November (as reported) |
| Inspections | First aircraft cleared at Oslo; second due at Oslo; third scheduled in London on 20 November (as reported) |
Sources: APP (9 October 2026); ARY News, as reported on 25 October 2026.
What is the Norse Atlantic deal?
PIA signed an agreement with Norway’s Norse Atlantic Airways for two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners under an ACMI arrangement, in which Norse provides the aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance. The aircraft are to boost PIA’s capacity on direct UK-Pakistan routes. PIA CEO AVM Amir Hayat said the deal would increase capacity and passenger choice, while Norse Atlantic CEO Eivind Roald said it would “strengthen connectivity between the UK and Pakistan,” according to APP.
What it means for passengers
The 787 is a modern long-haul aircraft that is quieter and more fuel-efficient than older wide-bodies. For the large Pakistani community in the UK, more direct seats on PIA could mean more flight options. Passengers should check PIA’s official website for confirmed schedules and fares before booking, as dates can change.
Frequently asked questions
Does PIA own these Dreamliners?
No. They are operated under an ACMI arrangement with Norse Atlantic, which supplies the aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance.
When is the first PIA Dreamliner flight?
PK-786 is scheduled to depart London on 31 October 2026 and reach Islamabad on 1 November, according to reports.
Related: Business news · World
Sources: APP: PIA, Norse Atlantic sign agreement for two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners; ARY News report via ProPakistani (25 October 2026). Featured image: AI-generated illustration, for representation only.
