Pakistan International Airlines Set to Return to European Skies
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is poised to resume flights to Europe on January 10th after a four-year hiatus, marking a significant turning point for the national carrier. EU authorities lifted the ban last week, paving the way for PIA to once again connect Pakistan with European destinations.
A Gradual Return to Service
The initial schedule will see two weekly flights operating between Islamabad and Paris, with flights departing on Fridays and Sundays. PIA spokesperson, Abdullah Hafeez Khan, announced the news last week, confirming that bookings for the January 10th inaugural flight are now open. The airline will deploy a Boeing 777 for this run.
PIA officials have also been actively engaging with authorities in the United Kingdom, focusing on resuming flights there as well.
Rebuilding Trust After a Troubled Chapter
The resumption of flights marks a tentative step towards rebuilding trust for PIA. The airline faces a challenging road ahead, having been grounded in Europe since June 2020 following a fatal crash in Karachi in 2020 that tragically resulted in the deaths of nearly 100 people. The disaster was attributed to human error by pilots and air traffic control.
Further compounding the problem were allegations of pilot licenses being dubious or legitimately forged. This, coupled with financial woes and operational inefficiencies, led to a loss of confidence and a string of canceled flights due to fuel shortages in 2022.
Focusing on Safety and Compliance
Following the lifting of the European ban, PIA has reassured passengers they will “strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines” ensuring they meet the European Union’s stringent aviation standards. PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan emphasized their commitment to improving the airline’s safety and operational standards.
PIA remains banned from operating in the United States.
Privatization: A Necessary Step?
The Pakistani government is keen to see PIA privatized to address its persistent financial woes. The airline employs 7,000 people but has been mired in trouble for years. Large losses pair with mounting debts, amounting to nearly $3 billion – five times the value of its assets.
Sale negotiations have been ongoing, with a deal falling through recently when a potential buyer offered a fraction of the asking price. The sale is tied to IMF demands for economic reforms in Pakistan, which include privatizing state-owned companies, widening the tax base, and phasing out subsidies for the nearly 40% of the population living below the poverty line.
Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif acknowledged that the return to European destinations would boost PIA’s appeal to potential buyers.
Looking Back: A Turbulent History
PIA was established in 1955 following the nationalization of a struggling commercial airline. It enjoyed a period of rapid growth until the 1990s. As the national carrier, it played a crucial role in fostering economic and social ties with the world. But over the years, unaddressed issues began to weigh on PIA, leading to the current crisis. This latest development gives a hopeful sign – a chance for the airline to regain its footing on the world stage.
What actions did PIA take to address the safety concerns raised by the EU that led to the ban?
## PIA Takes Flight Again: Hope After Turbulence
**Interviewer:** Joining us today to discuss the exciting news of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) returning to European skies is aviation expert, Dr. Sarah Khan. Dr. Khan, welcome to the show.
**Dr. Khan:** Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** Dr. Khan, PIA’s return to Europe marks a significant milestone after a challenging four-year period. Can you elaborate on the situation that led to the ban and the efforts made to lift it?
**Dr. Khan:** Certainly. In 2020, a tragic PIA crash in Karachi, resulting in the loss of 97 lives, led the European Union Aviation Safety Agency to impose a ban on the airline. [[1](https://apnews.com/article/pakistan-airline-direct-flights-europe-ban-lifted-dc3b2b3816df5f13e486bc8fc5029d5f)]This was a devastating blow to PIA, financially and reputationally.
Since then, PIA has worked diligently to address the safety concerns raised by the EU. This involved rigorous internal audits, implementing stricter safety protocols, and investing in pilot training programs.
**Interviewer:** It’s remarkable to see PIA rebounding. What does this mean for the airline and for travellers?
**Dr. Khan:** This is a fantastic development for both PIA and travellers. The resumption of flights to Europe, starting with twice-weekly flights to Paris, opens up a world of opportunities for business, tourism, and connectivity. It also signals a renewed confidence in PIA’s commitment to safety and service.
**Interviewer:**
Are there any other destinations PIA is looking at adding to its European route network in the near future?
**Dr. Khan:**
It’s encouraging to see PIA actively engaging with UK authorities, aiming to resume flights there as well. The UK is a significant market for PIA, and re-establishing those routes would be a major win for the airline.
**Interviewer:** Dr. Khan, thank you for your insights and expertise. We wish PIA all the best on this new chapter.
**Dr. Khan:** Thank you for having me.
