A national airline is to start operating twice-weekly flights from Leeds-Bradford International Airport to Pakistan.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will next month start Wednesday and Saturday flights to Islamabad.

The announcement fills the gap left by Shaheen Air International which had been the first to start direct flights from the Yeadon airport earlier this year but ran into problems with plane availability and the service was ended.

Tony Hallwood, the airport's commercial and aviation development director, said: "We are extremely pleased to have secured the services of Pakistan International Airlines.

"A direct flight to Islamabad by PIA, one of the leading international airlines, is a major achievement for the airport.

"It is excellent news for Bradford and the entire Yorkshire region."

Mr Hallwood said estimates suggested about 10,000 people could use the service per year and there was scope to increase the number of flights in the future.

PIA's managing director, Captain Mohammad Aijaz Haroon, said the company had decided to run the flights because of strong customer demand in Bradford and Islamabad.

Farooq Ibrahim, UK general manager for PIA, said: "We look forward to introducing Leeds-Bradford on Pakistan International Airline's international route network. We have worked closely with the airport team and are confident of success."

The announcement was also welcomed by Sher Azam, chairman of Bradford Council of Mosques.

He said: "I am aware of this new development. There was a similar type of flight operating until recently to Islamabad from Leeds-Bradford but the service was suspended last month.

"It will be beneficial to the people of Bradford and Leeds and will be welcomed by Pakistani people here and make travelling much easier especially as this has been announced as summer holidays are about to begin.

"I think this will also mean more support for the airport, it is very welcome."

The PIA service starts on Wednesday, July 2.

e-mail: paddy.mcguffin @telegraphandargus.co.uk