After a four-year suspension, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume its flights to Europe starting January 10. The European Union (EU) recently lifted the ban on the airline, marking a significant milestone for PIA and its efforts to regain international operations. This move also aligns with ongoing efforts to improve the airline’s financial and operational performance.
Flights to Paris First in Line
PIA announced that the first flight, operated by a Boeing 777, will depart from Islamabad to Paris on January 10. The airline plans to operate two flights weekly, on Fridays and Sundays, with plans to expand the schedule gradually. Bookings for the inaugural flight will open on December 9, according to PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan.
The airline is also in talks with UK officials to reinstate flights to the United Kingdom. A recent meeting between PIA representatives and Glasgow Airport’s management signals progress toward extending operations to other European destinations.
Reasons Behind the Ban
The EU suspended PIA’s operations in June 2020 following a tragic crash in Karachi that claimed nearly 100 lives. Investigations revealed human error by pilots and air traffic controllers. Compounding the crisis, allegations surfaced that nearly a third of PIA pilots held dubious or fake licenses.
These revelations prompted the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to ban PIA flights, citing safety and regulatory concerns. The airline’s suspension also extended to the United States, where the ban remains in effect.
Commitment to Safety and Compliance
After the EU ban was lifted, PIA assured strict adherence to EASA’s regulations. The airline aims to rebuild its reputation by prioritizing passenger safety and meeting international aviation standards.
PIA has faced widespread criticism for poor management and financial mismanagement. With a workforce of over 7,000 employees, the airline has struggled to cover liabilities amounting to nearly $3 billion—five times the value of its total assets. Losses in 2023 alone reached $270 million, with flights frequently canceled due to unpaid fuel bills.
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Privatization Efforts Intensify
The resumption of European flights comes amid the government’s push to privatize the debt-ridden airline. Efforts to sell PIA are part of broader economic reforms tied to International Monetary Fund (IMF) aid programs. These include restructuring state-owned enterprises, broadening the tax base, and reducing subsidies.
Last month, privatization talks fell through when a potential buyer offered significantly less than the government’s asking price. However, Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif recently expressed optimism, calling the restoration of European operations a “major value addition” that could attract more buyers.
A Return to Glory?
Established in 1955, PIA once flourished as one of Asia’s leading airlines, enjoying rapid growth until the 1990s. Over the years, mismanagement and mounting debts tarnished its reputation.
The resumption of flights to Europe represents a chance for PIA to rebuild its legacy. With improved safety protocols and compliance measures, the airline hopes to regain passenger trust and secure a more sustainable future.
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