ISLAMABAD: Virgin Atlantic has announced the suspension of its services to Pakistan. The decision comes after the airline reviewed its network and made some changes as it continues to ramp up its flying programme in 2023.
In a press statement, the airline said it would no longer operate flights between London and Lahore and Islamabad.
Virgin launched new flights from Manchester and Heathrow to Pakistan in December 2020, becoming the second western carrier after British Airways to serve destinations in the country.
At the time, the airline’s US-focused network had been heavily disrupted by pandemic restrictions. However, as the airline has gradually rebuilt its transatlantic programme, adding routes to Austin and Tampa, it has now made the decision to suspend its Pakistan services.
Instead, it plans to restore its London-Shanghai service from May, following China’s easing of coronavirus restrictions.
”As we continue to ramp up our flying programme in 2023, we’ve taken the opportunity to review our entire network and decided to make a few changes,” the airline said. “Following this review, it is with regret that we’ve taken the difficult decision to suspend our services between London Heathrow and Pakistan.”
A spokesperson for the company acknowledged that the decision was not taken lightly and apologised for any inconvenience caused.
The airline suspended its Manchester service to Islamabad in winter.
Virgin will, however, continue to operate flights to Lahore until May 1 and to Islamabad until July 9. The airline will provide options such as rebooking or a full refund to affected customers, according to the statement.
