By Muhammad Luqman
After over a decade of suspension, British Airways will start its three-per-week direct service from London to Islamabad on June 2.
The British airliner had suspended its flights to Pakistan for an indefinite period after Marriot Hotel bombing in the capital Islamabad in September 2008, due to security reasons.
In a recent statetment, the Chief Commercial Officer at British Airways, said: “The excitement is building as we put the final touches to this exciting route launch. 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, with thoughtful bespoke touches.”
According to the British Airways statement, the three-per-week service is operated on a three-class Boeing 787 Dreamliner with World Traveller (long-haul economy), World Traveller Plus (long-haul premium economy) and Club World (long-haul business class) available. The 787 is British Airways’ newest long-haul aircraft that is 20 percent more fuel efficient than other aircraft and features larger windows, mood lighting and the latest inflight entertainment system. The lower cabin pressure means customers step off the flight feeling fresh.
Return fares between London and Islamabad start from as little as £448 in World Traveller, £709 in World Traveller Plus and £1,499 in Club World. These can be reduced to as little as £248 in World Traveller, £459 in World Traveller Plus and £499 in Club World by using Avios part payment. As always, customers can choose to cut the cost of flights by using Avios part payment. They are able to pick from a range of savings by destination and cabin. Customers making the most of this are still able to collect Avios and Tier Points on their bookings.
Customers travelling can expect bespoke services to enhance the on-board experience including a halal meal option in every cabin, while the airline will also ensure sauces in every meal and will not include alcohol or pork. As with any British Airways flight customers can also pre-order a range of special meal options including vegetarian and vegan options.
British Airways’ long-haul flights include extremely generous hand baggage allowances – one large cabin bag with a small laptop or handbag – complimentary food and drink, online check-in and free seat selection 24 hours prior to departure. Customers landing in London can connect on to British Airways’ network which includes over 30 destinations across North America, with over 70 flights per day to the US through the airline’s joint business with American Airlines. Customers can also connect to over 30 countries in Europe, the statement concluded.
