British airways resumes flight to Pakistan, 1st flight arrives successfully in Islamabad

British Airways resumed flights to Pakistan last night, more than a decade after suspending the route following a terrorist attack in the capital Islamabad.

It had pulled out after a suicide bomber hit the Marriott Hotel in September 2008 with a truck full of explosives, which left at least 54 people dead and nearly 300 injured, including six British citizens.

There will be three flights a week between Heathrow and Islamabad, and British Airways – the only Western airline to serve Pakistan – will offer a halal meal option in every class and ensure sauces do not include alcohol or pork.

Andrew Brem, chief commercial officer at British Airways, said: ‘The anticipation from customers and colleagues has been palpable and we hope customers in both the UK and Pakistan will enjoy the classically British service we offer”.