EASA lifts ban on PIA for flights to Europe [Post Updated #120]

[shaz619]

The United Kingdom (UK) has refused to lift the ban on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights, expressing its safety reservations to the country’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), ARY News reported, citing sources.

Sources privy to the development said the Air Safety Unit of the British Department of Transport (DfT) had written a letter to the CAA to convey its concerns over the measures it had taken for flight dependability. The letter was received by CAA on September 8, 2022.

In the letter, the DfT has expressed its dissatisfaction over the steps taken by the CAA to ensure flight standards and safety. The DfT is of the opinion that the ban could not be lifted because of the lack of progress despite the settlement of the licensing issues and legislation on aviation in Pakistan.

Excellent and safer for people here travelling to Pak via Dubai

 

[Kroll]

The United Kingdom (UK) has refused to lift the ban on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights, expressing its safety reservations to the country’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), ARY News reported, citing sources.

Sources privy to the development said the Air Safety Unit of the British Department of Transport (DfT) had written a letter to the CAA to convey its concerns over the measures it had taken for flight dependability. The letter was received by CAA on September 8, 2022.

In the letter, the DfT has expressed its dissatisfaction over the steps taken by the CAA to ensure flight standards and safety. The DfT is of the opinion that the ban could not be lifted because of the lack of progress despite the settlement of the licensing issues and legislation on aviation in Pakistan.

Hope it gets lifted soon, can't be bothered with stopovers in the middle east, would rather just fly direct to Pakistan even if the flight is substandard.

 

[gani999]

Excellent and safer for people here travelling to Pak via Dubai

The ban is only on aircraft owned by PIA, and not on the airline itself. PIA has continued to operate direct flights from UK to Pakistan using leased aircraft.

 

[daytrader]

PIA FLIGHTS TO EUROPE: PCAA DELEGATION DEPARTS FOR BRUSSELS TO HOLD TALKS

KARACHI: Major progress was made on the restoration of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to Europe as a delegation of the Civil Aviation Authority departed for Brussels to hold talks, ARY News reported on Sunday.

The five-member delegation of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) will hold talks in Brussels with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and European Commission regarding the restoration of PIA flights.

The PCAA officials will brief the EASA regarding the steps being taken for the issuance of licences to the pilots.

Earlier in the month, civil aviation officials briefed the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) on the revival of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to Europe.

EASA is responsible for ensuring safety and environmental protection in air transport in Europe.

Sources told ARY News that PCAA officials had an eight-hour-long online season with the EASA officials in which they answered the regulator’s queries. The Civil Aviation Authority officials briefed the EASA about licensing, registration, oversight and other departments.

The European regulator will visit Pakistan if it is satisfied with the arrangements made by the CAA for the revival of PIA flights to the region, the source said.

Earlier, the United Kingdom (UK) refused to lift the ban on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights, expressing its safety reservations to the country’s Civil Aviation Authority.

Sources privy to the development said the Air Safety Unit of the British Department of Transport (DfT) had written a letter to the CAA to convey its concerns over the measures it had taken for flight dependability. The letter was received by CAA on September 8, 2022.

ARY

 

[MenInG]

The ban imposed by the European Union on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight operations is anticipated to be lifted soon, ARY News reported on Saturday.

According to sources, an Audit team of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to do a remote online in which they will inspect all the various issues related to flight operation including flight safety and flight engineering.

The EASA team will carry out a safety audit of CAA and PIA prior to allowing flights from Pakistan to European countries, said sources.

PIA Spokesperson stated that all the preparations related to the online audit of EASA have completed, he also anticipated that after the successful audit of the airline operations, the operations of PIA will be resume in Europe.

 

[Bewal Express]

Hopefully the Nooras and the PPP don't mess it up by hiring unqualified crooks this time.

 

[daytrader]

PIA plane ‘seized’ in Malaysia over non-payment of lease dues

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Boeing 777 aircraft was ‘seized’ over a lease dispute at Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur International Airport, ARY News reported on Tuesday.

The Beoing 777 was acquired by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) on lease from Malaysia.

The plane with the BMH registration number was stopped for the second time at the Kuala Lumpur airport over payment of dues worth $4 million.

The company ‘seized’ the PIA plane after receiving the order from a local court after payment of dues.

This is not the first time that the PIA aircraft has been seized in Malaysia over dues issue, but the same aircraft was seized by the Kuala Lumpur airport authorities in 2021 on the same issue.

Later, the plane was released on diplomatic assurance about the payment of dues.

The seized PIA plane was brought back to Pakistan on January 27 along with 173 passengers and crew members on board.

ARY

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA likely to get nod for Europe, UK flights

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) team will arrive in Karachi on November 26 to conduct an audit of the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), likely paving the way for the national flag carrier to begin flight operation for Britain and Europe, ARY News reported.

EASA will also conduct a remote safety audit of different departments of Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority CAA (PCAA).

The audit will determine the airworthiness of PIA, and whether it will regain access to European airspace.

A successful audit would allow PIA and other private airlines of chte country to restart flights to the EU.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency is an agency of the European Union with responsibility for civil aviation safety. It carries out certification, regulation and standardisation and also performs investigation and monitoring. A successful audit would allow PIA and other private airlines of the country to restart flights to the EU.

It may be noted here that PIA was restricted from flying to EU states after the EASA suspended the national airline’s authorisation to operate flights to EU member states.

The restrictions were imposed in the wake of the May 22, 2020, Karachi plane crash and a statement by Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar that around 40 percent of Pakistani pilots had fake licences.


ARY News

 

[Cricket Warrior]

FBR unblocks PIA’s bank accounts

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) on Thursday unblocked bank accounts of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) after matters over non-payment of dues were settled between the two national entities, ARY News reported.

The national tax collection body had blocked PIA’s bank accounts over non-payment of taxes amid an ‘all-important’ audit from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

However, the bank accounts were unblocked after the national flag carrier assured the tax collection body of clearing all pending dues and submitted written assurance.

FBR unblocks PIA's bank accounts

KARACHI: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) on Thursday unblocked bank accounts of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) after matters over non-payment of

arynews.tv

 

[FearlessRoar]

In a noteworthy development, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is likely to lift restrictions on the flight operation of Pakistani aircraft, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) on European routes, ARY News reported, citing sources.

The sources close to the development revealed that a pivotal meeting of the EASA’s safety board has been scheduled for May 2024, where the future of PIA is expected to be a focal point for discussion.

Sources stated that the documents related to the matter have been submitted by PIA to the EASA, meanwhile, the final report is set to be presented during the EASA’s safety board meeting in May.

The European Safety Agency will include the audit report of PIA and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the meeting agenda, sources maintained.

While it remains premature to make definitive statements, a spokesperson from the Civil Aviation Authority expressed optimism, acknowledging encouraging progress in the ongoing discussions.

It is pertinent to mention here that the EASA suspended PIA flight operations for Europe in June 2020 over safety concerns.

The EASA in a letter conveyed to the national flag carrier, said that they had suspended the Third Country Operator (TCO) Authorisation to PIA after it failed to comply with the proposed corrective action plans (CAPs).

It said that six findings were raised with the PIA officials during meetings in June and September 2019, out of which five of the action plans were implemented while one other concerning element of a Safety Management System was not implemented.

Source: ARY

EASA likely to lift ban on flight operation of Pakistani aircraft: Sources

In a noteworthy development, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is likely to lift restrictions on the flight operation of Pakistani

arynews.tv

 

[FearlessRoar]

I believe the ban should not be lifted because Pakistani aircraft are deemed too risky for domestic flights, therefore, it seems implausible that they would be safe for international flights.

 

[Cricket Warrior]

FM Dar briefed on issue of PIA flights to Europe

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday was briefed on the progress made so far for resumption of PIA flights to Europe and United Kingdom.

The briefing was given during meeting of Steering Committee on outsourcing of Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore Airports under chairmanship of Foreign Minister in Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The meeting was attended by Minister Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Minister for Law, Justice and Human Rights (on phone) and Secretaries of Ministry of Aviation and Law Division along with senior Government officials of Ministries of Aviation, Foreign Affairs, Finance and Country Director International Finance Corporation (IFC).

The Country Director IFC told about the progress made on the project of outsourcing of Airports so far and informed the committee that multiple efforts of continuous engagement with the prospective investors have yielded positive results and with the new political government in office confidence of the investors to invest in Pakistan has augmented.

With this intent, International bidders from Qatar, UAE, Germany, Turkey, Netherlands, Malaysia and local consortia have requested extension in bid submission timelines to complete their due diligence.

The foreign minister assured fullest support to the engaged investors through economic diplomacy and expeditious process for achieving successful outcome of this flagship project. Considering the requests of interested bidders and based on strong recommendation of the IFC, the committee decided to extend the Bid Submission date for 60 Days till 15th May 2024.

While taking note of the progress made, the minister assured fullest diplomatic support of Foreign Office in line with newly adopted strategy of economic diplomacy and in the larger public interest including Pakistani diaspora in UK and EU.



ARY News

 

[Major]

The greatest gift that PTI gave to us.

Thank you PTI for destroying PIA.

A dumb statement by Ghulam Sarwar wrecked our industry

 

[BouncerGuy]

A dumb statement by Ghulam Sarwar wrecked our industry

what industry are we talking about here? PIA? that was already destroyed before PTI came into power for the very first time that too for just 3 years and now the whole blame goes toward PTI? HOW?

 

[Major]

what industry are we talking about here? PIA? that was already destroyed before PTI came into power for the very first time that too for just 3 years and now the whole blame goes toward PTI? HOW?

After someone plane crash, Ghulam Sarwar (a PTI aviation minister) made the dumbest statement one could ever make in the Parliament of Pakistan. He claimed that Pakistani pilots dont even have licenses. This statement was taken soo seriously by the European countries that soon PIA ended up getting banned. It turned out PIA pilots do have license and the minister made a dumb statement.

So, it doesnt matter if you were there for 3 years or 3 months, but one dumb statement from the PTI minister wrecked the aviation industry totally.

 

[BouncerGuy]

After someone plane crash, Ghulam Sarwar (a PTI aviation minister) made the dumbest statement one could ever make in the Parliament of Pakistan. He claimed that Pakistani pilots dont even have licenses. This statement was taken soo seriously by the European countries that soon PIA ended up getting banned. It turned out PIA pilots do have license and the minister made a dumb statement.

So, it doesnt matter if you were there for 3 years or 3 months, but one dumb statement from the PTI minister wrecked the aviation industry totally.

141 pilot licenses were declared as suspected by the PCAA, the breakup thereof along with status is 18 pilots were not PIA employees, 18 pilots were terminated from service upon suspension/cancellation of license by PCAA, 16 were deceased and separated, 2 Pilots are on stay order whose decision is pending due to the same and remaining 87 were cleared by PCAA afterwards.

SOURCE: DAWN

it was not a fake thing pointed out by sarwar.

 

[shaz619]

I would fly on PIA so long the politician who provides me rotis tells me it’s all safe and the pilots are all qualified and licensed, that’s what matters in the end for burgers, it’s all about the carbs.

 

[Major]

141 pilot licenses were declared as suspected by the PCAA, the breakup thereof along with status is 18 pilots were not PIA employees, 18 pilots were terminated from service upon suspension/cancellation of license by PCAA, 16 were deceased and separated, 2 Pilots are on stay order whose decision is pending due to the same and remaining 87 were cleared by PCAA afterwards.

SOURCE: DAWN

it was not a fake thing pointed out by sarwar.

LOL so now you will defend the stupid statement by ghulam sarwar just to defend your party?

Thing is, there was no need to make this statement in parliament, as being the aviation minister he had the authroity to deal with with this internally.

India came across a similar issue and resolved it internally and was not banned. But than here we are talking about PTI..

Reports have emerged in the Indian media that close to 4,000 pilots in the country have “fake” permits, but it did not trigger any furor in the country as it happened in Pakistan.

The reason is that their ministers did not brag about this “fraud” at the public forums, and rather dealt with this irregularity in line with their laws and regulations.

The controversy triggered by the aviation minister statement resulted in the downgrading of the PIA to “one star” airline by the global rating website AirlineRating.com.

His one stupid statement caused billions of ruppees to the airlines

 

[BouncerGuy]

LOL so now you will defend the stupid statement by ghulam sarwar just to defend your party?

I am not defending his statement. I spit some facts for you about that license issue. Seems like he was not wrong about those fake licenses.

 

[BouncerGuy]

PIA flights to UK may resume in May

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has expressed the hope that the Pakistan International Airlines flights to the United Kingdom would likely resume in May as inspections in this regard have been completed.

CAA Additional Director General Taimur Iqbal stated this while presiding over the 43rd E-Kacheri.

A spokesman for the CAA said on Monday that E-Kacheri commenced with a review of the previous session, which included nine follow-up complaints.

Commenting on the follow-ups, the additional director general emphasised the importance of passengers knowing their rights and filing claims for grievances like flight cancellations. He said airlines needed to provide more information than just saying ‘technical’ reasons for cancellations or delays leading to cancellations.

About PIA flights to the UK, the additional DG expressed the hope for an update in May as inspections have been completed.

In response to a complaint about Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) staff at the immigration counters, he said the agency is responsible for assigning personnel to immigration counters, especially during peak hours.

The issue has been raised multiple times and it will be pursued further, he added.

In reply to a question about drones, he said a policy document on drone is being prepared and it will be available on the CAA website once finalised.

Mr Iqbal, in response to a question regarding the investigation report of the PK 8303 crash, said there are specific procedures and requirements that must be followed to ensure accountability.

Addressing a complaint about lack of proper signage at Quetta International Airport’s parking lot, he instructed the staff concerned to designate spaces for special persons and install visible markings to assist passengers and other visitors.

In reply to a question about commencing flights from D.G. Khan to Dubai, he stated that currently no airline operates to the district due to it being economically non-viable.

SOURCE: DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

FM stresses on early resumption of PIA flights in phone call with UK counterpart​

Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Monday underscored the urgency of restarting Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights between Pakistan and the UK, aiming to strengthen connections, especially considering the significant Pakistani diaspora in Britain.

Dar's remarks came following a telephone conversation with Britain’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs, Lord David Cameron. In the call, Dar and Cameron reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering bilateral relations across various sectors.

PIA flights to Europe and the UK were suspended after the European Union's Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) revoked the national carrier's authorisation to fly to the bloc in 2020 following a fake pilot licence scandal. The issue resulted in the grounding of 262 of Pakistan's 860 pilots, including 141 of PIA's 434.

"Today, I received a telephone call from Lord David Cameron, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs of Great Britain," Dar wrote on X.

During their discussion, both ministers delved into bilateral ties and regional concerns. They pledged to maintain close collaboration to further enrich mutual cooperation in trade, investment, education, climate change, and people-to-people interactions.

According to a press release issued by the Foreign Office spokesperson, the foreign minister, reiterating the importance of Pakistan-UK relationship said that Pakistan and the UK had longstanding, historic relations with multifaceted cooperation.

FM Dar emphasised the early conclusion of the Enhanced Strategic Partnership (ESP) agreement to take relations to the next level.

The foreign minister stressed on the need to enhance bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, people-to-people contacts and climate.

He stressed on the need for early resumption of PIA flights between Pakistan and the UK which would further bolster linkages, particularly in view of the large Pakistani diaspora in the UK.

The two ministers also discussed important regional issues including Afghanistan and the situation in Gaza.

The foreign minister invited Lord Cameron to visit Pakistan on mutually convenient dates.

FM stresses on early resumption of PIA flights | The Express Tribune

Dar stresses on need to enhance bilateral cooperation in trade during telephonic conversation with David Cameroon

tribune.com.pk

 

[FearlessRoar]

PIA Europe, UK flight ban likely to be lifted soon

During the meeting, EASA will presented the audits reports of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and PIA which was conducted by the EASA team back in November 2023.

These audits covered areas such as licensing, flight safety, airworthiness, air transport, PIA’s safety management system, flight standards, engineering sector, and other critical areas.

Following the successful assessment (inspection) of the European safety agency, the flights of Pakistani airline, PIA, are likely to resume in Europe and UK.

It is pertinent to mention here that the PIA had completed the targets given by the European Safety Agency (ESA) before the given deadline.

The route to Europe and UK is vital for PIA as it contributes significantly to its revenue.

Since July 2020, all Pakistani airlines, including PIA, have been restricted from flying to Europe and Britain, but the possibility of this changing is now being explored.

Earlier, the ban imposed by the European Union and the United Kingdom on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight operations is expected to be lifted soon.

According to the details, the Director General of Civil Aviation chaired a 43rd E-Kachehri on Monday, in which it was hoped that a positive update regarding the lifting of the ban may emerge by May.

The E-Kachehri was informed that a comprehensive policy on drones will be finalised soon. A policy document on drone policy is being prepared which will be available on the PCAA website when finalised.

Accountability in air accidents has specific procedures and requirements that must be followed.

PIA Europe, UK flight ban likely to be lifted soon

In mid-May, the European Safety Agency (EASA) Safety Review Board will convene a meeting to discuss the potential lifting of restrictions on Pakistan

arynews.tv

 

[BouncerGuy]

EASA to assess PIA flight safety in May

A delegation led by Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Director General Khaqan Murtaza is set to attend a crucial meeting of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) scheduled for mid-May to review the revival of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight operations in Europe.

During the meeting, the authority will scrutinize a report on the audit of various departments of the CAA in light of EASA standards. In November 2023, an EASA team visited Pakistan to assess various aspects of the CAA and PIA, including licensing, flight safety, flight standards, and airworthiness.

According to some officials, the CAA has fulfilled all the requirements of the agency, and EASA is likely to lift restrictions on Pakistan after the safety review board meeting. If this occurs, PIA flights to Europe and the UK will resume after a prolonged hiatus.

EASA had imposed a ban on the flight operations of the national flag carrier following a PIA plane crash in Karachi in May 2020. The crash, which claimed 97 lives, later uncovered a scandal regarding the issuance of licenses to commercial pilots without proper evaluation.

SOURCE: EXPRESS TRIBUNE

 

[FearlessRoar]

CAA chief hopes EU will lift flight ban next month

A delegation led by Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Director General Khaqan Murtaza will attend a of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) scheduled for May to review the revival of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight operations in Europe.

During the meeting, the authority will scrutinize a report on the audit of various departments of the CAA in light of EASA standards

In a statement, DG CAA Murtaza said that EASA is likely to lift restrictions on Pakistan after the safety review board meeting.

If this occurs, PIA flights to Europe and the UK will resume after a prolonged hiatus, he added.

It is pertinent to mention here that in November 2023, an EASA team visited Pakistan to assess various aspects of the CAA and PIA, including licensing, flight safety, flight standards, and airworthiness.

EASA had imposed a ban on the flight operations of the national flag carrier following a PIA plane crash in Karachi in May 2020.

The EASA in a letter conveyed to the national flag carrier, said that they had suspended the Third Country Operator (TCO) Authorisation to PIA after it failed to comply with the proposed corrective action plans (CAPs).

It said that six findings were raised with the PIA officials during meetings in June and September 2019, out of which five of the action plans were implemented while one other concerning element of a Safety Management System was not implemented.

CAA chief hopes EU will lift flight ban next month

A delegation led by Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Director General Khaqan Murtaza will attend a of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)

arynews.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Europe to lift ban on PIA, Vision Air flights next month: sources

The European Air Safety Committee is set to approve the renewal of PIA and Vision Air flights’ Third Country Operators’ Permits next month, ARY News reported on Sunday, citing sources.

In a recent development, the European Commission and European Aviation Safety Agency (IASA) forwarded the decision – related to the flight ban of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) in Europe – to the European Air Safety Committee.

The meeting of the European Air Safety Committee is scheduled to be held between May 14 and 16 in Brussels.

The European Commission spokesperson, Deborah Almerge, emphasized that there are no restrictions on other Pakistani airlines in European countries.

She further clarified that the ban on PIA and Air Vision was not imposed due to their addition in the European Air Safety List, but rather due to safety concerns related to the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority.

The European Commission stated that the flight safety measures taken by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority are being examined by the Review Board this month.

It is pertinent to mention here that after the pilots’ license scandal, the European Aviation Agency had imposed a ban on all Pakistani airlines in July 2020.


ARY News

 

[BouncerGuy]

Direct flights to UK may resume soon

An assessment team of the UK Department for Transport (UK-DfT) on Thursday expressed its satisfaction with the security measures in place at the Islamabad International Airport and appreciated the steps taken to ensure safe flight operations -- hinting that planes would start flying directly from the country to the kingdom soon.

The UK-DfT security assessment team completed its review of the arrangements at the Islamabad airport put in place by the various government agencies.

The UK inspectors assessed the aviation procedures and processes at the airport, including passenger handling; crew; baggage delivery and vehicle screening; as well as aircraft and cargo security measures.

The purpose of the visit by the UK-DfT team was to review the overall security measures at the airport, particularly for direct flights to and from the UK, read a statement.

“Additional security measures for direct flights to the UK and other measures at the airport were also examined. All entities responsible for implementing aviation security measures at the airport were scrutinised and generally found to adhere to the standards set by the UK-DfT,” it added.

During the visit, the team also made a few recommendations to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). “Such engagements will further promote aviation relations between the two countries,” said Abdul Ghaffar, the first secretary aviation at the British High Commission.

The four-member UK-DfT team will leave Islamabad for the UK on Friday (today). Its final report of the assessment would be submitted to the CAA within three weeks.

SOURCE: EXPRESS TRIBUNE

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA ‘begins’ preparation for UK flights

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has ‘begun’ preparation for flight operations for United Kingdom (UK), ARY News reported, quoting well-placed sources.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) team visited Pakistan to assess various aspects of the CAA and PIA, including licensing, flight safety, flight standards, and airworthiness.

As per details, the PIA is hoping to get nod for the UK flights and it has decided to operate weekly 22 flights for the kingdom.

In this context, the PIA has sought bids for in-flight catering services at London, Manchester and Birmingham airports. The intended companies have been asked to submit their technical and financial proposals by June 27, 2024.

It may be noted here that PIA was restricted from flying to EU states after the EASA suspended the national airline’s authorisation to operate flights to EU member states.

The restrictions were imposed in the wake of the May 22, 2020, Karachi plane crash and a statement by the ex-Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar that around 40 percent of Pakistani pilots had fake licences.


ARY News

 

[Cricket Warrior]

EU, UK ban on Pakistan airlines expected to be lifted today

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is likely to announce a decision on the revival of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and other airlines’ flight operations to Europe today, ARY News reported.

The UK and several other EU countries had suspended PIA’s flight operations due to concerns about the authenticity of pilot licences in 2020.

Recently, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) team visited Pakistan to assess various aspects of the CAA and PIA, including licensing, flight safety, flight standards, and airworthiness.

The team expressed satisfaction with the measures in place by CAA and PIA.

Moreover, a four-member security assessment team from the UK Department for Transport (UK-DfT) has expressed satisfaction with the security measures in place at the Islamabad International Airport.

The UK inspectors assessed the aviation procedures and processes at the airport, including passenger handling; crew; baggage delivery and vehicle screening; as well as aircraft and cargo security measures.

ASF officials briefed the British team on security measures including passenger handling; crew; baggage delivery and vehicle screening; additional measures for UK flights.


ARY News

 

[FearlessRoar]

EU refuses to lift ban on Pakistani air carriers, PIA

The European Union (EU) in its recent meeting found no grounds for amending the current list of air carriers banned from operating within the Union, including Pakistani airlines.

This decision comes after a comprehensive review by the EU Air Safety Committee, which involved an on-site evaluation of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and sample assessments of Pakistani air carriers Fly Jinnah and Airblue Ltd.

The on-site assessment, conducted between November 27 and 30, 2023, focused on the PCAA’s role and responsibility in safety oversight.

Although the PCAA demonstrated adherence to international safety standards and was staffed by technically skilled professionals.

However, the on-site assessment team identified several shortcomings, including insufficient scrutiny in closing findings based on proposed corrective actions rather than actual evidence, deviations from established procedures, and a severe understaffing in the Flight Standards Directorate.

Despite these issues, no major safety concerns were identified in the airworthiness or personnel licensing and training organizations, which were found to be appropriately staffed.

Fly Jinnah, one of the air carriers assessed, was noted for needing improvement in record keeping and management of findings.

The PCAA presented a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) on May 6, 2024, and elaborated on the steps taken to address the identified issues during a hearing before the EU Air Safety Committee on May 14, 2024.

Notably, the PCAA increased the number of qualified inspectors from one to nineteen in the Flight Standards Directorate, established a Quality Control section in each department, and created a central Quality Assurance department.

Fly Jinnah detailed its current operations and the measures taken to address quality management system flaws, including the use of software tools for various operational functions and outsourcing key activities to Air Arabia.

The EU Air Safety Committee in its report stated that continuous monitoring of the safety situation in Pakistan is essential.

“Regular technical meetings in Brussels and progress reports from the PCAA will be part of this ongoing oversight,” the EU report said.

The Committee also emphasized the need for the Pakistani government’s continued support and leadership stability within the PCAA.

For now, the EU has decided not to lift the ban on Pakistani air carriers, urging Member States to continue verifying compliance through ramp inspections.

The Commission warned that any revelation of imminent safety risks could prompt further action, underscoring the critical nature of maintaining international safety standards.

EU refuses to lift ban on Pakistani air carriers, PIA

KARACHI: The European Union (EU) refused to lift the ban on Pakistani air carriers including PIA, ARY News reported on Saturday. The European Union (EU)

arynews.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

EU refuses to lift ban on Pakistani air carriers, PIA

The European Union (EU) in its recent meeting found no grounds for amending the current list of air carriers banned from operating within the Union, including Pakistani airlines.

This decision comes after a comprehensive review by the EU Air Safety Committee, which involved an on-site evaluation of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and sample assessments of Pakistani air carriers Fly Jinnah and Airblue Ltd.

The on-site assessment, conducted between November 27 and 30, 2023, focused on the PCAA’s role and responsibility in safety oversight.

Although the PCAA demonstrated adherence to international safety standards and was staffed by technically skilled professionals.

However, the on-site assessment team identified several shortcomings, including insufficient scrutiny in closing findings based on proposed corrective actions rather than actual evidence, deviations from established procedures, and a severe understaffing in the Flight Standards Directorate.

Despite these issues, no major safety concerns were identified in the airworthiness or personnel licensing and training organizations, which were found to be appropriately staffed.

Fly Jinnah, one of the air carriers assessed, was noted for needing improvement in record keeping and management of findings.

The PCAA presented a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) on May 6, 2024, and elaborated on the steps taken to address the identified issues during a hearing before the EU Air Safety Committee on May 14, 2024.

Notably, the PCAA increased the number of qualified inspectors from one to nineteen in the Flight Standards Directorate, established a Quality Control section in each department, and created a central Quality Assurance department.

Fly Jinnah detailed its current operations and the measures taken to address quality management system flaws, including the use of software tools for various operational functions and outsourcing key activities to Air Arabia.

The EU Air Safety Committee in its report stated that continuous monitoring of the safety situation in Pakistan is essential.

“Regular technical meetings in Brussels and progress reports from the PCAA will be part of this ongoing oversight,” the EU report said.

The Committee also emphasized the need for the Pakistani government’s continued support and leadership stability within the PCAA.

For now, the EU has decided not to lift the ban on Pakistani air carriers, urging Member States to continue verifying compliance through ramp inspections.

The Commission warned that any revelation of imminent safety risks could prompt further action, underscoring the critical nature of maintaining international safety standards.

EU refuses to lift ban on Pakistani air carriers, PIA

KARACHI: The European Union (EU) refused to lift the ban on Pakistani air carriers including PIA, ARY News reported on Saturday. The European Union (EU)

arynews.tv

lol... I was planning to visit the UK on a direct flight but now have to deal with same huge layover in Dubai or Doha again.

 

[FearlessRoar]

PIA flights to Europe to be restored soon: NA told

Responding to a calling attention notice regarding the ban on PIA flights by the UK and the European Union, he said,” A detailed action plan from Pakistan has been dispatched to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the verification process is currently underway.”

“We hope that the verification process will be completed within two to three months and flights to Europe will be restored,” he added.

The minister said that the European Commission Air Safety Commission delisted Pakistan from its concern list on May 14, describing this as a positive development.

Earlier sources revealed that the European Air Safety Committee is set to approve the renewal of PIA and Vision Air flights’ Third Country Operators’ Permits next month.

The European Commission and European Aviation Safety Agency (IASA) forwarded the decision – related to the flight ban of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) in Europe – to the European Air Safety Committee.

The European Commission spokesperson, Deborah Almerge, emphasized that there are no restrictions on other Pakistani airlines in European countries.

She further clarified that the ban on PIA and Air Vision was not imposed due to their addition in the European Air Safety List, but rather due to safety concerns related to the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority.

It is pertinent to mention here that after the pilots’ license scandal, the European Aviation Agency had imposed a ban on all Pakistani airlines in July 2020.

PIA flights to Europe to be restored soon: NA told

ISLAMABAD: The Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Ali Pervaiz Malik informed the National Assembly (NA) on Friday that Pakistan International

arynews.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA remains banned for Europe flights over failure to meet safety standards

In the case of Pakistan International Airlines's (PIA) ban on its flights to European countries for four years, it has been revealed that the national airlines continues to fail to demonstrate effective compliance with the stringent safety standards mandated by the European Union (EU).

The spokesperson of the European Commission has released detailed reasons for maintaining the ban. It cites PIA's ongoing inability to demonstrate effective compliance with all safety protocols. This includes essential measures concerning operational safety, maintenance practices, and regulatory oversight.

“All Pakistani airlines, including PIA, are required to implement corrective measures to address deficiencies in their safety management systems,” stated the spokesperson.

He further said the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Pakistan must also utilise the necessary capabilities for effective monitoring. Moreover, no Pakistani airline, including PIA, currently features on the EU's air safety list, indicating significant concerns over regulatory compliance.

The restrictions imposed on PIA are a direct consequence of the suspension of its Third Country Operator's (TCO) license by the International Air Safety Assessment (IASA). As a result, PIA is unable to operate flights between Pakistan and European countries until it rectifies the identified shortcomings and regains compliance with EU aviation safety requirements.

The suspension of PIA's European Third Country Operator permit by IASA underscores the critical need for comprehensive reforms within the airline's safety management framework. This situation not only affects PIA's operational capacity but also raises broader concerns about Pakistan's aviation safety oversight.

In response to these developments, stakeholders within Pakistan's aviation sector are intensifying efforts to address the deficiencies highlighted by international regulators.

However, until PIA meets the EU's stringent safety standards, the ban on its European flights remains in force, impacting both the airline's operations and Pakistan's standing in global aviation safety protocols.


Samaa TV

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday said “much progress” has been made to resume Pakistan International Airlines’ (PIA) flights to and from the United Kingdom, where he is on an official visit this week

In 2020, the revelation of pilots holding “dubious” licences prompted the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority to withdraw PIA’s permit to operate from three of its airports. The European Union had also suspended PIA’s flights in the same year.

Last month, Privatisation Commission Secretary Usman Akhtar Bajwa told the Senate Standing Committee on Privatisation that the process of privatising PIA would be completed by October 1.

Addressing a press conference with Pakistani High Commissioner Dr Mohammad Faisal in London, Dar expressed the hope that PIA operations will resume in the UK, stating that he raised the issue in a meeting with British Deputy PM Angela Rayner.

“I raised PIA in my meeting with Angela Rayner. It is unfortunate how the previous govt (the PTI) handled PIA; we have made much progress in that area.

“My visit was potentially very useful for Pakistan,” Dar asserted.

“We have made every effort, even we changed the laws as per the latest requirements of the Aviation Authority of UK to solve the issue of resumption of PIA flights,” the deputy prime minister said.

Dar said the government was taking action to privatise PIA and outsource Islamabad International Airport. He said that the process was moving on the fast track, expressing faith that it would be completed by October 10.

Speaking about the Pakistani diaspora in the UK, he said, “I believe that the British Pakistanis have proved to be the most articulate, the most diverse and the most effective and vibrant who are contributing not only to the development of the host country but also that of Pakistan.”

The foreign minister blamed the PTI administration for PIA’s suspension, asserting that an irresponsible statement by the then-aviation minister grounded the aircraft.

“We are hopeful that the deputy prime minister (Angela Rayner) will help because this is a major issue for our diaspora,” he said. Dar added: “In a recent meeting on August 24, we met with EU aviation officials and presented our case.”

He also highlighted how the British Pakistani community is one of the most politically active among overseas communities in the UK. “We have two cabinet members, 15 members in the House of Commons, 11 in the House of Lords and hundreds of councillors, and mayors and deputy mayors.”

‘Pakistan to raise 3 main issues as UNSC non-permanent member’
During the press conference, the foreign minister expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s ascent to the UN Security Council as a non-permanent member.

“Thankfully, we were voted into the UNSC with 182 votes and only five votes against,” Dar said. He added that then-UK foreign secretary David Cameron was “one of the first to congratulate us”.

Dar pledged to fulfil Pakistan’s role as a member of the international community, stating: “We are performing an active role as a Security Council member and hope to work with the five permanent members to form an agenda.”

“We will fulfil our responsibility, be it on [India-held] Kashmir or Palestine, or Islamophobia. These are the issues I will bring to multinational fora,” he affirmed.

Source: Dawn News

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Major development emerges in PIA flight restoration to Europe, UK

In an effort to restore Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to the UK and European countries have gained momentum as the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) engages in technical discussions with British and European Union (EU) authorities, ARY News reported on Friday.

Sources close to the development revealed that the multiple technical sessions have been conducted in the past two days between CAA and EU officials.

These online sessions lasted for several hours, focusing on the steps required to lift the ban on PIA flights in Europe and the UK.

CAA officials shared progress reports, stressing that all the targets set by the EU and UK have been met, and urged the authorities to allow PIA’s resumption in these regions.

The government is keen to revive PIA operations in Europe and the UK before finalizing its privatization process, as confirmed by CAA sources.

Major development emerges in PIA flight restoration to Europe, UK

KARACHI: In an effort to restore Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to the UK and European countries have gained momentum as the Pakistan Civil

arynews.tv

 

[gani999]

Any news about the privatisation of PIA? Have any bidders expressed interest?

 

[FearlessRoar]

Any news about the privatisation of PIA? Have any bidders expressed interest?

Yes you can watch here

PIA: To privatise or not to privatise?

Government should privatise the Prime Minister office as well because that is also not gonna work like PIA didn't.

ppforum.pakpassion.net

 

[FearlessRoar]

PIA honored with Pakistan’s first national tourism award
During a ceremony held on World Tourism Day, the award was presented to PIA CEO Air vice Marshal Amir Hayat.
PIA was recognized for its unique role in connecting the country’s regions both domestically and internationally.

The airline has actively campaigned to showcase Pakistan’s breathtaking northern areas to the world, boosting tourism.

“This award is an honor for PIA and a testament to our national commitment,” said a PIA spokesperson, adding that the airline will continue to play its part in promoting domestic tourism as the national carrier.

PIA honored with Pakistan's first national tourism award

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has been awarded the prestigious National Tourism Award for its significant contributions to promoting

arynews.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Pakistani airlines soon to resume flights to UK, EU and US

Pakistan’s aviation sector is set to undergo a significant transformation, with the potential reinstatement of direct flights to the UK and EU soon, ARY News reported on Sunday.

The UK Department for Transport (DfT) is expected to send a safety team to Pakistan for an assessment, possibly followed by a security team evaluation of major airports in the country.

This move could pave the way for Pakistani-origin airlines such as PIA and Airblue to resume flights to the United Kingdom (UK).

Once these assessments are successfully completed, airlines like Serene Air might also get clearance for direct flights to Europe.

This development is critical for the EU’s decision on lifting the ban on Pakistani airlines.

The EU clearance would not only restore flights but also prompt the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to reconsider Pakistan’s aviation category.

Currently, Pakistan remains downgraded to Category 2 after the EU ban, but a successful EU reassessment could lead to an upgrade to Category 1, allowing Pakistani airlines to expand their international operations, including potential routes to the U.S.

To ensure this progress, Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) must adhere strictly to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and UK safety and security standards.

This comprehensive compliance across the aviation industry is crucial for lifting current restrictions and ensuring future growth in international flight operations.

If all these regulatory requirements are met, next year could see a revival of direct flights from Pakistani airlines to the UK, EU, and possibly the U.S., marking a major milestone for Pakistan’s aviation industry.


ARY News

 

[Bewal Express]

Pakistani airlines soon to resume flights to UK, EU and US

Pakistan’s aviation sector is set to undergo a significant transformation, with the potential reinstatement of direct flights to the UK and EU soon, ARY News reported on Sunday.

The UK Department for Transport (DfT) is expected to send a safety team to Pakistan for an assessment, possibly followed by a security team evaluation of major airports in the country.

This move could pave the way for Pakistani-origin airlines such as PIA and Airblue to resume flights to the United Kingdom (UK).

Once these assessments are successfully completed, airlines like Serene Air might also get clearance for direct flights to Europe.

This development is critical for the EU’s decision on lifting the ban on Pakistani airlines.

The EU clearance would not only restore flights but also prompt the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to reconsider Pakistan’s aviation category.

Currently, Pakistan remains downgraded to Category 2 after the EU ban, but a successful EU reassessment could lead to an upgrade to Category 1, allowing Pakistani airlines to expand their international operations, including potential routes to the U.S.

To ensure this progress, Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) must adhere strictly to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and UK safety and security standards.

This comprehensive compliance across the aviation industry is crucial for lifting current restrictions and ensuring future growth in international flight operations.

If all these regulatory requirements are met, next year could see a revival of direct flights from Pakistani airlines to the UK, EU, and possibly the U.S., marking a major milestone for Pakistan’s aviation industry.


ARY News

Hopefully this happens and we have our house in order. My nephews are due to PK but they have a 7hr stopover in Saudi.

 

[FearlessRoar]

EASA lifts ban on PIA for flights to Europe: Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif

Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif on Friday announced that the European Commission and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have lifted the ban on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) for flights to Europe.

In 2020, after a PIA plane crash in Karachi killed nearly 100, followed by a fake pilot licence scandal, the EASA banned the airline from its most lucrative routes in Europe and Britain.

The ban cost the airline an annual revenue of nearly Rs40 billion. Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Ali Pervaiz Malik informed the National Assembly in June that PIA flights to Europe were expected to be restored soon as the European Commission Air Safety Commission had delisted Pakistan from its concern list on May 14, describing it as a “positive development”.

In March, Asif claimed that PIA flights to the UK would resume soon after clearance from EASA by mid-May. The minister’s remarks were based on conversations with “relevant quarters”.

In a post on X today, he said: “It is a momentous day to announce that European Commission and EASA has lifted the suspension on PIA flights to Europe.”

He added that Third Country Operator authorisation was also issued to Airblue.

Asif said the development was made possible due to the aviation ministry’s “complete focus” on strengthening the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and ensuring safety oversight in line with the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

“Our government has taken significant measures to strengthen PCAA, including enactment of PCAA Act, smooth segregation of regulator and service providers, appointment of professional leadership and training to build the capacity.

“I am grateful to European Commission and EASA for conducting a transparent process and our commitment to ensure aviation safety in Pakistan.”

An on-site review conducted from November 27 to 30, 2023, critically examined the PCAA’s role in safety oversight and identified multiple areas of concern.

These included deviations from established safety procedures and significant understaffing in the Flight Standards Directorate, despite the authority being staffed by technically skilled professionals.

In response, the PCAA presented a corrective action plan on May 6 detailing measures taken to address the deficiencies noted. This plan was discussed during a hearing with the EU safety committee in May.

The EU Air Safety Committee concluded that “particular attention should be given to the continuous monitoring of the safety situation and developments in Pakistan, through the regular organisation of technical meetings in Brussels before each EU Air Safety Committee, and regular progress reporting from PCAA.”

It further retained the possibility of inviting the PCAA to an additional hearing at future EU Air Safety Committee meetings, as may be warranted.

The commission also highlighted the need for the government’s continued support, as well as the importance of ensuring leadership stability within the authority as a cornerstone for a well-functioning PCAA.

“In accordance with the common criteria set out in the regulation, the commission considers that at this time there are no grounds for amending the list of air carriers, which are subjected to an operating ban within the union with respect to air carriers certified in Pakistan,” it said in a report.

It added that EU member states should continue verifying the effective compliance of air carriers certified in Pakistan with the relevant international safety standards through the prioritisation of ramp inspections of those air carriers.

“Where any relevant safety information reveals imminent safety risks resulting from non-compliance with the relevant international safety standard, further action by the commission can become necessary,in accordance with regulation,” it said.

EASA lifts ban on PIA for flights to Europe: Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif

Says Third Country Operator authorisation also issued to Airblue; EASA says "sufficient confidence" re-established in PCAA's oversight capabilities.

www.dawn.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

https://twitter.com/x/status/1862523732126048427

 

[FearlessRoar]

PIA ‘incurred’ Rs 220b losses due to ban on flight operations

According to sources within the Privatization Commission, the national flag carrier has been severely impacted by the restrictions.

The ban on PIA flights to European destinations has resulted in a significant loss of revenue, with the airline’s financial woes exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Civil Aviation Authority has also suffered a loss of around Rs 250 billion due to the ban on European routes.

However, sources within the Privatization Commission have revealed that efforts are underway to restore PIA’s routes to the UK before privatization. The successful restoration of these routes is expected to be a huge milestone in the privatization process.

Additionally, negotiations are ongoing for the sale of PIA under the GTJG agreement.

Yesterday, in a major development, Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif said that the European Union (EU) has lifted the ban on PIA flights to Europe.

According to Asif, the European Aviation Authority on Friday accepted the Civil Aviation Authority’s (CAA) request to lift the ban on PIA flights to the EU.

Khawaja Asif stated that the removal of the ban will help expedite the PIA privatization process, as the rating of the national flag-carrier has significantly improved.

In a statement issued on X, the aviation minister wrote: “It is a momentous day to announce that European Commission and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has lifted the suspension on PIA flights to Europe.”

The development came after a comprehensive review by the EU Air Safety Committee, which involved an on-site evaluation of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and sample assessments of Pakistani air carriers.

It is pertinent to note here that the UK and several other EU countries suspended PIA’s flight operations due to concerns about the authenticity of pilot licenses in 2020.

PIA 'incurred' Rs 220b losses due to ban on flight operations

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has incurred a staggering loss of approximately Rs 220 billion over the past four and a half years due to

arynews.tv

 

[FearlessRoar]

PIA to resume flights to Europe from Jan 10 after EU lifts ban​

Pakistan International Airlines said on Friday it will resume flights to Europe in January, starting with Paris, after the EU aviation regulator lifted a ban on the national flag carrier.

PIA’s authorisation to operate in the EU was suspended in June 2020 over concerns about the ability of Pakistani authorities and its Civil Aviation Authority to ensure compliance with international aviation standards.

“We have got approval for the first flight’s schedule we had filed,” PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan said, adding that the airline would be opening bookings on December 9 for its planned January 10 flight of a Boeing 777 to Paris.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency and Britain suspended PIA’s permission to operate in the region after Pakistan began probing a scandal over the validity of pilots’ licences in the wake of a plane crash that killed 97 people.

PIA will soon approach Britain’s Department for Transport (DfT) for permission to resume routes to the UK, Khan said. Once cleared by the DfT, London, Manchester and Birmingham would be the most sought-after destinations, he added.

The ban cost the loss-making airline 40 billion rupees ($144 million) annually in revenue.

PIA has 23% of Pakistan’s domestic aviation market, but its 34-plane fleet cannot compete with Middle Eastern carriers which have 60%, due to a lack of direct flights, despite having agreements with 87 countries and key landing slots.

PIA to resume flights to Europe from Jan 10 after EU lifts ban | The Express Tribune

The ban cost the loss-making airline 40 billion rupees ($144 million) annually in revenue

tribune.com.pk

 

[FearlessRoar]

PIA eyes revival of UK flights by THIS month

According to the Director General of Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), Nadir Shafi Dar, a delegation from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) will visit Pakistan next month. He further revealed that an online meeting is also scheduled for the third week of December, followed by an official visit to the UK in January 2024.

The DG expressed optimism, stating that PIA flights to the UK could resume as early as March, following successful evaluations similar to those conducted by the European Union (EU). Pakistan’s positive assessment by the EU is expected to pave the way for PIA UK flight operations.

A PIA spokesperson noted that Pakistan previously operated 21 weekly flights to the UK, including ten to London, nine to Manchester, and two to Birmingham.

Resumption of flights to Europe and the UK is expected to significantly boost the national airline’s revenue.

PIA on December 7, announced that it will resume flights to Europe in January, starting with Paris, after the EU aviation regulator lifted a ban on the national flag carrier.

PIA’s authorization to operate in the EU was suspended in June 2020 over concerns about the ability of Pakistani authorities and its CAA to ensure compliance with international aviation standards.

“We have got approval for the first flight’s schedule we had filed,” PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan said, adding that the airline would be opening bookings on Dec. 9 for its planned Jan. 10 flight of a Boeing 777 to Paris.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency and Britain suspended PIA’s permission to operate in the region after Pakistan began probing a scandal over the validity of pilots’ licences in the wake of a plane crash that killed 97 people.

PIA eyes revival of UK flights by THIS month

KARACHI: Pakistan’s aviation industry is poised for another breakthrough as preparations are underway to resume Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)

arynews.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA hoping to resume UK flights early in 2025

Pakistan is optimistic about securing approval from British aviation authorities to resume direct flights to the UK by the first quarter of 2025.

This positive outlook follows a statement by Nadir Shafi Dar, the Director General of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), to Business Recorder.

Dar confirmed that a crucial inspection visit by officials from the UK’s Department for Transport and Civil Aviation Authority is scheduled for the third week of January 2025. This follows a planned online meeting between Pakistani and UK officials in the third week of December 2024 to discuss the resumption.

Dar expressed confidence in receiving operational clearance within weeks of the January inspection, basing his optimism on the recent successful assessment by the European Union. He highlighted that the positive EU evaluation strengthens Pakistan’s case for flight resumption to the UK.

Prior to the suspension of flights, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operated a substantial number of weekly flights to the UK, including 10 to London, 9 to Manchester, and 2 to Birmingham. PIA anticipates a considerable increase in revenue upon the resumption of services to both the UK and Europe.

The potential return of these flights would significantly improve air travel connectivity for Pakistani passengers traveling to the UK and other European destinations. The article also notes that the evaluation process will likely mirror the criteria used in the recent EU assessment.


AAJ News

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA all set to resume direct flights to Paris

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume direct flights to Paris in January 2025, marking a significant step towards enhancing business, tourism, and people-to-people contacts.

Ambassador of Pakistan to France, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, recently met with PIA’s marketing representatives to discuss preparations for the launch of the direct flights to Paris.

“Direct flights between Pakistan and France will facilitate travel, and contribute towards enhancing business, tourism, family visits and people-people contacts,” a press release issued on Sunday said.

Earlier, it was revealed that Pakistan’s aviation sector is set to make a significant advance with preparations underway for the resumption of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to the United States (U.S).

According to reports, Pakistan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), as stated by DG CAA, to settle pending financial obligations.

As per DG CAA Nadir Shafi Dar, payments to the FAA are expected to be made shortly, paving the way for the FAA’s delegation to visit Pakistan by February or March.

There is hope that Pakistan will be reclassified to the ‘Category One’ status with the FAA, allowing direct flights to the U.S. to resume.

The suspension of Pakistan International Airline’s (PIA) flights to the U.S. began in 2017, when six flights per week were operated between Pakistan and the U.S., including four to New York and two to Chicago.


ARY News

 

[adzzy786]

If you want poor service, nothing to work on the plane, dirty seats , and above all else pilots without license and to risk your own and family life, fly with PIA. - this should be the tag line

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA seeks approval for UK flight operations

After Europe, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is now seeking approval to resume its flight operations in the United Kingdom, ARY News reported

According to details, PIA has sent a formal letter to the UK Department of Transport and Civil Aviation under the instructions of CEO Khurram Mushtaq.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) sources revealed that it has received the letter, stating that permission should be granted for the resumption of PIA flights in the UK.

The letter also includes PIA’s request to reinstate the Third Country Authorisation for operations in the UK. PIA aims to resume flights to London, Birmingham, and Manchester.

PIA’s letter also highlights plans to operate its first flight to Paris on January 10, 2025, following the restoration of European operations.

The resumption of UK flights is expected to boost PIA’s revenue significantly. The airline’s services were suspended four years ago due to a pilot licensing scandal that led to bans in Europe and the UK.

PIA seeks approval for UK flight operations

KARACHI: After Europe, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is now seeking approval to resume its flight operations in the United Kingdom, ARY News

arynews.tv

 

[FearlessRoar]

CAA seeks end of UK ban after PIA resumes Europe flights​

After the resumption of Pakistan International Airlines' direct flights to Europe, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has become active in efforts to lift the ban imposed on the airline’s operations to the UK.

According to sources at the CAA, a delegation from the UK’s Department for Transport (DFT) will visit Pakistan in mid-January. PIA's direct flight operations to the UK are expected to resume in February. The UK Civil Aviation team will arrive in Karachi between January 15 and 17, 2025, Express News reported.

The CAA has contacted British aviation authorities to request an exemption in the security audit process. The UK DFT has shown a willingness to grant this exemption and expressed confidence in CAA's manual report. The British aviation team will formally conduct a safety audit of both CAA and PIA.

The British aviation team has already conducted an audit of PIA and CAA, with successful results. CAA Director-General Nader Shafi Dar is personally leading safety and security teams to ensure the timely resumption of direct flights to the UK.

The CAA will brief the DFT delegation during their visit. There is strong hope that the ban on PIA’s direct flights to the UK will be lifted by February. PIA is ready to resume its operations to the UK, with direct flights to Manchester initially, followed by London and other cities in the second phase. PIA will operate its Boeing 777 aircraft for flights to Europe and the UK.

Earlier, Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat was reappointed as the CEO of PIA, according to a notification issued by the Pakistani government. Hayat will serve as the acting CEO until a permanent appointment is mad

Previously, according to a PIA spokesperson, with the expansion of its network and the potential resumption of flights to the UK and Europe, the national air carrier is in the process of rejuvenating its aircraft that had been in storage for a long time, bringing them back into the operational fleet.

According to the management's plan, the operational fleet of Boeing 777 will reach eight aircraft. Similarly, the management has planned to increase the number of A-320 aircraft to 12 and ATR planes to two.

"This fleet requirement is in line with the aggressive operational plan that PIA has set for itself for the year 2025," the airline official said.

Pakistan to export trained pilots for foreign airlines

Director General CAA Nadir Shafi Dar announced plans on Wednesday to export trained Pakistani pilots to meet the demand of international airlines.

Addressing a press briefing, Dar pointed out the shortage of cockpit pilots in the region and revealed that the CAA has already initiated efforts to address the issue.

He said that while Pakistani aviation was preparing enough pilots to meet local airline needs, any surplus would be offered to foreign carriers.

Dar disclosed that two international companies have expressed interest in the initiative, with one already commencing Phase 1 of the project.

CAA pushes to lift UK flight ban on PIA after Europe resumption | The Express Tribune

The CAA has contacted British aviation authorities to request an exemption in the security audit process.

tribune.com.pk

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA all set to resume direct flights to Paris tomorrow

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume direct flights to Paris on Friday after a ban of more than four years, ARY News reported.

This marked a significant step towards enhancing business, tourism, and people-to-people contacts.

PIA spokesperson said that twice-weekly direct flights between Islamabad and Paris will commence on January 10, 2025.

The first PIA flight – PK749 – will take off from Islamabad airport at 12:00pm, with more than 300 passengers onboard.

Minister for Defense, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, PIA acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Khurram Mushtaq and Secretary Aviation will be present at Islamabad airport to see off the passengers in a simple ceremony.

PIA all set to resume direct flights to Paris tomorrow

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume direct flights to Paris on Friday after a ban of more than four years, ARY News

arynews.tv

 

[FearlessRoar]

PIA all set to resume direct flights to Paris tomorrow

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume direct flights to Paris on Friday after a ban of more than four years, ARY News reported.

This marked a significant step towards enhancing business, tourism, and people-to-people contacts.

PIA spokesperson said that twice-weekly direct flights between Islamabad and Paris will commence on January 10, 2025.

The first PIA flight – PK749 – will take off from Islamabad airport at 12:00pm, with more than 300 passengers onboard.

Minister for Defense, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, PIA acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Khurram Mushtaq and Secretary Aviation will be present at Islamabad airport to see off the passengers in a simple ceremony.

PIA all set to resume direct flights to Paris tomorrow

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume direct flights to Paris on Friday after a ban of more than four years, ARY News

arynews.tv

https://twitter.com/x/status/1876675800671687087

 

[Mockingbird]

So apparently this is the ad PIA posted today on resuming service to Paris. I am dead

 

[BouncerGuy]

PIA flight departs from Islamabad for Paris, ending 4-year EU ban

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) finally resumed flights to Europe on Friday, over a month after a four-and-a-half-year ban was lifted by EU regulators.

A flight of the state-owned airline, plagued by a history of deadly crashes and a pilot licence scandal, took off from Islamabad at around 12:40pm heading for Paris, AFP journalists saw, becoming the only carrier to offer a direct route to and from the European Union.

“This is the first time I am travelling with PIA,” said passenger Shumaila Rana, a 38-year-old school teacher living in Germany. “I’m nervous and I’m having a lot of anxiety, but I’m hoping it’s gonna be a good flight.”

Debt-ridden PIA was banned in June 2020 from flying to the European Union, United Kingdom and the United States, a month after one of its Airbus A-320s plunged into Karachi’s Model Colony, killing nearly 100 people.

The disaster was attributed to human error by the pilots and air traffic control, and was followed by allegations that nearly a third of the licences for its pilots were fake or dubious.

In 2016, a PIA plane burst into flames after one of its two turboprop engines failed during a flight from Chitral to Islamabad, killing more than 40 people.

On November 29, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency announced it had lifted the ban, however, it remains barred from flying in the UK and the United States.

At the time, it said it had “re-established sufficient confidence” in the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority’s oversight capabilities.

The airline flies to multiple cities inside Pakistan, including the mountainous north, as well as to the Gulf and Southeast Asia.

Hopes pinned on privatisation

PIA, which employs 7,000 people, has long been accused of being bloated and poorly run — hobbled by unpaid bills, a poor safety record and regulatory issues.

Pakistan’s government has said it is committed to privatising the debt-ridden airline and has been scrambling to find a buyer.

Late last year, a deal fell through after a potential buyer reportedly offered a fraction of the asking price.

The government hopes the opening of European routes, which officials expect will be followed by a similar announcement by the UK later this year, will boost its selling potential.

Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif had called the restoration of flights to Europe a “major value addition” that would make the airline more attractive to potential buyers.

PIA posted losses of $270 million in 2023, according to local media. Its liabilities were nearly $3 billion, about five times the total worth of its assets.

In the same year, amid a national economic crisis, dozens of domestic flights were cancelled when it could not afford fuel for its planes.

PIA came into being in 1955 when the government nationalised a loss-making commercial airline and enjoyed rapid growth until the 1990s.

DAWN NEWS

 

[bones]

We need direct flights from the UK to Pakistan. I don't care if that's Virgin, BA or PIA, we just need them. I recently travelled via the middle east and whilst those airlines are top drawer in terms of professionalism and service they do not get us to our destination in the quickest way (travel time varies between 14 & 18 hours usually). Travelling with young children, especially infants is physically and mentally tough so a direct flight of 7/8 hours like we used to have really helps the situation.

I'm not planning on visiting Pakistan this year, but I'm optimistic that by the time I am ready to visit family in 2026, then direct flights will be well established. Hopefully PIA won't screw this up this time.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Social media trolls PIA over Paris flight ad​

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed flights from Islamabad to Paris, and announced the news with an advertisement that has sparked a mixed feraction on social media.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), PIA shared an image of a plane flying toward the Eiffel Tower, with the French flag appearing in the background.

However, the red portion of the flag next to the iconic landmark, along with the plane heading directly towards it. The imagery was considered by some social media users as problematic.

The image was accompanied by the message, “Paris, we’re coming today.”

Social media users quickly reacted to the post, with some expressing confusion and humor over the graphic design choices and wording, while many drew comparisons to imagery from the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center in New York.

PIA resumes Islamabad to Paris flights with creative ad that sparks attention | The Express Tribune

PIA resumes flights from Islamabad to Paris with an ad that sparks attention on social media.

tribune.com.pk

 

[The_KING]

PIA is a rubbish airline. Awful seats, no in flight entertainment, dodgy pilots and planes. Even if they start to operate direct flights to England, I will never fly PIA. I don’t have any desire to risk by life by flying this awful airline.

 

[The_KING]

So apparently this is the ad PIA posted today on resuming service to Paris. I am dead

View attachment 149495

They are so out of touch with reality, it’s embarrassing.

 

[Aang_The_last_airbender]

PIA flight departs from Islamabad for Paris, ending 4-year EU ban

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) finally resumed flights to Europe on Friday, over a month after a four-and-a-half-year ban was lifted by EU regulators.

A flight of the state-owned airline, plagued by a history of deadly crashes and a pilot licence scandal, took off from Islamabad at around 12:40pm heading for Paris, AFP journalists saw, becoming the only carrier to offer a direct route to and from the European Union.

“This is the first time I am travelling with PIA,” said passenger Shumaila Rana, a 38-year-old school teacher living in Germany. “I’m nervous and I’m having a lot of anxiety, but I’m hoping it’s gonna be a good flight.”

Debt-ridden PIA was banned in June 2020 from flying to the European Union, United Kingdom and the United States, a month after one of its Airbus A-320s plunged into Karachi’s Model Colony, killing nearly 100 people.

The disaster was attributed to human error by the pilots and air traffic control, and was followed by allegations that nearly a third of the licences for its pilots were fake or dubious.

In 2016, a PIA plane burst into flames after one of its two turboprop engines failed during a flight from Chitral to Islamabad, killing more than 40 people.

On November 29, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency announced it had lifted the ban, however, it remains barred from flying in the UK and the United States.

At the time, it said it had “re-established sufficient confidence” in the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority’s oversight capabilities.

The airline flies to multiple cities inside Pakistan, including the mountainous north, as well as to the Gulf and Southeast Asia.

Hopes pinned on privatisation

PIA, which employs 7,000 people, has long been accused of being bloated and poorly run — hobbled by unpaid bills, a poor safety record and regulatory issues.

Pakistan’s government has said it is committed to privatising the debt-ridden airline and has been scrambling to find a buyer.

Late last year, a deal fell through after a potential buyer reportedly offered a fraction of the asking price.

The government hopes the opening of European routes, which officials expect will be followed by a similar announcement by the UK later this year, will boost its selling potential.

Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif had called the restoration of flights to Europe a “major value addition” that would make the airline more attractive to potential buyers.

PIA posted losses of $270 million in 2023, according to local media. Its liabilities were nearly $3 billion, about five times the total worth of its assets.

In the same year, amid a national economic crisis, dozens of domestic flights were cancelled when it could not afford fuel for its planes.

PIA came into being in 1955 when the government nationalised a loss-making commercial airline and enjoyed rapid growth until the 1990s.

DAWN NEWS

Shehbaz Shariff correcting the blunders of previous regime and bringing Pakistan out of the dark ages.
but PTI bhakts will ignore this like the stock market too.

 

[bones]

PIA is a rubbish airline. Awful seats, no in flight entertainment, dodgy pilots and planes. Even if they start to operate direct flights to England, I will never fly PIA. I don’t have any desire to risk by life by flying this awful airline.

Between the rubbish PIA and state of the art middle eastern airlines (etihad, emirates, qatar etc etc) I would pick PIA every single day of the week and twice on a sunday because for me the shorter the time to the destination the better.

Do you know how difficult long distance travel with children, especially with babies is? When PIA resume their flights to the UK, that'll reduce journey times down to 7-8 hours. This is half of what I had to endure with Qatar and Saudia recently. Who cares about in flight entertainment anyway? Everyone has tablets, laptops and mobile phones anyway.

For me journey time is way way way above entertainment and quality of the seat.

 

[bones]

Shehbaz Shariff correcting the blunders of previous regime and bringing Pakistan out of the dark ages.
but PTI bhakts will ignore this like the stock market too.

Shehbaz Sharif and others are just as culpable. The main reason flights were stopped wasn't political by the way, it was because of the arrogance and stupidity of pilots. These pilots cost our country billions.

 

[The_KING]

Between the rubbish PIA and state of the art middle eastern airlines (etihad, emirates, qatar etc etc) I would pick PIA every single day of the week and twice on a sunday because for me the shorter the time to the destination the better.

Do you know how difficult long distance travel with children, especially with babies is? When PIA resume their flights to the UK, that'll reduce journey times down to 7-8 hours. This is half of what I had to endure with Qatar and Saudia recently. Who cares about in flight entertainment anyway? Everyone has tablets, laptops and mobile phones anyway.

For me journey time is way way way above entertainment and quality of the seat.

I understand where you are coming from. Travelling is very hard as it is and not having a direct flight from England to Pakistan makes it even harder.

But I am someone who is scared of flying, so feeling at ease when flying is very important for me and I feel way more comfortable and secure flying Qatar or Emirates as compared to PIA.

 

[KingKhanWC]

We all want a great service on airlines esp when paying a huge amount for a return ticket.

But we also want direct flights, time is money and sometimes we need to travel for an emergency, funerals etc.

However if its a choice between direct flights and safety, pick safety first all the time. Sadly we are seeing more planes crash than ever before.

 

[Bhaijaan]

@DeadlyVenom @Cpt. Rishwat @Rajdeep @Devadwal

https://twitter.com/x/status/1877692343970566520

https://twitter.com/x/status/1877722884895907862

 

[Aang_The_last_airbender]

@DeadlyVenom @Cpt. Rishwat @Rajdeep @Devadwal

https://twitter.com/x/status/1877692343970566520

https://twitter.com/x/status/1877722884895907862

Its not as bad as this

 

[BouncerGuy]

PIA’s direct Islamabad-Paris flight lands after four-year hiatus

PIA’s first direct flight to Paris, PK-749, landed safely at Charles de Gaulle Airport, marking the resumption of the airline’s operations to France after a gap of more than four years.

The passengers, along with PIA and Aviation officials, were warmly welcomed by Charge d’Affaires Huzefa Khanum and members of the Pakistani diaspora. Speaking at the occasion, the Charge d’Affaires described the direct flight as a significant step for overseas Pakistanis, highlighting that it will strengthen trade, tourism, business, and people-to-people connections between Pakistan, France, and the European Union.

PIA CEO Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat, who was on board the flight, stated that the airline will now operate direct flights between Islamabad and Paris twice a week, every Friday and Sunday, ensuring convenient air connectivity between the two countries. He also recalled that PIA had first launched direct flights to France in 1966.

A representative of Air France lauded the occasion, calling it a positive development for bilateral relations.

Passengers arriving in Paris expressed delight at the reduced travel time and appreciated the quality of service on board. To celebrate the milestone, a cake-cutting ceremony was held at Charles de Gaulle Airport, attended by embassy staff and PIA officials.

SOURCE: https://www.nation.com.pk/11-Jan-20...bad-paris-flight-lands-after-four-year-hiatus

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA apologises for Eiffel Tower advert

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) apologised on Friday for an advert of a plane flying at the Eiffel Tower, published to mark the first flight to Paris after a safety ban was lifted.

The image posted by PIA to social media showed a plane aimed at the French landmark with the caption “Paris, we’re coming today”.

In thousands of comments online, users drew comparisons with the 2001 Al-Qaeda attacks on New York’s Twin Towers, when two planes were hijacked and flown into the skyscrapers, killing nearly 3,000.

Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was killed in Abbottabad by US special forces in 2011, while a Pakistani militant currently held in Guantanamo Bay is considered the chief mastermind of the attack.

“Unfortunately, this was blown out of proportion with connations and perceptions that were not intended,” PIA spokesman Abdullah Khan told AFP.

“It might have triggered some negative emotion, for which we truly apologise.” He said there were around 60,00 to 70,000 negative reactions online or less than 10 per cent of engagement.


“Is this [an] advertisement or threat?” said one post under the advert, which has not been taken down.

“I’d have a word with your marketing department on this one chief,” said another.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said in Tuesday’s Senate session that the prime minister ordered an inquiry into the advert which “shows stupidity”.

PIA apologises for Eiffel Tower advert

“The total collective reach of this ad alone is 30 million now with 755,000 reactions out of which only 10pc were negative," spokesperson says.

www.dawn.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Pakistani airlines likely to resume direct flights to UK soon​

A seven-member team from the UK’s Department for Transport is scheduled to arrive in Pakistan today to conduct an audit of the country’s aviation standards, as part of efforts to restore Pakistani airlines’ flights to the UK, Express News reported.

Starting from Monday, the team will begin auditing the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), covering several areas including licensing, airworthiness, flight standards, and other crucial aspects of aviation operations.

“We are ready to brief the British officials,” said Nadir Shafi Dar, Director General of PCAA, who will lead the local team during the audit. The audit will run from January 27 to February 6, 2025.

A successful audit could lead to the lifting of the restrictions imposed in 2020 on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and all other Pakistani carriers, potentially allowing them to resume services to the UK.

In preparation for the audit, Pakistan’s civil aviation officials have made extensive arrangements. Staff have been instructed to report to work on Saturday, even though it is a holiday, to ensure the audit proceeds smoothly.

Pakistan has been eager to restore access to one of its key international markets, which was disrupted following the grounding of PIA flights by UK authorities over safety concerns in 2020. The outcome of this audit could significantly impact Pakistan’s aviation industry and its relationships with global regulators.

Pakistani airlines likely to resume direct flights to UK soon | The Express Tribune

A seven-member team from the UK’s Department for Transport is scheduled to arrive in Pakistan today to conduct an audit of the country’s aviation standards

tribune.com.pk

 

[FearlessRoar]

British officials in Pakistan to audit CAA for flight restoration​

A British delegation has arrived in Pakistan to assess the country's aviation safety standards, Express News reported on Monday.

The delegation from the UK Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will review the safety standards of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA).

This assessment is a crucial step towards Pakistani carriers' resumption of flight operations between Pakistan and the UK. The PCAA’s Director-General, Nadir Shafi Dar, and his team of experts are hosting the delegation.

During the visit, several high-level meetings will take place between both parties, focusing on aviation safety protocols, reviewing documentation, and operational procedures.

The British delegation will also visit airlines to review their adherence to international standards. Over the past few months, CAA officials have been engaged in a series of technical discussions with the UK.

CAA officials are optimistic about the positive outcomes of the British delegation's visit.

Earlier, Nadir Shafi Dar, Director General of PCAA, who will lead the local team during the audit, said, “We are ready to brief the British officials.” The audit will run from January 27 to February 6, 2025.

Previously, PIA began international flight operations from the New Gwadar International Airport, with the maiden flight taking off for the Omani capital of Muscat on Friday.

A PIA spokesperson said the inaugural flight, PK-197, carried 39 passengers.

Senior PIA officials saw them off at the airport. According to the spokesperson, the national flag carrier would operate a weekly flight on the Gwadar-Muscat route.

British delegation in Pakistan to review aviation safety protocols | The Express Tribune

The PCAA’s Director-General, Nadir Shafi Dar, and his team of experts are hosting the delegation.

tribune.com.pk

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA restores eight international routes in last six months

The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has restored eight international routes in the last six months, ARY News reported citing details provided by the Aviation Ministry to the National Assembly.

The restored routes include flights from Islamabad to Paris, Turbat to Sharjah and Al Ain, Gwadar to Muscat, Quetta to Jeddah, Faisalabad to Jeddah and Madinah, and Lahore to Kuwait.

According to the Aviation Ministry, the Islamabad-Paris route was resumed after a gap of almost four and a half years and 5 months, with Boeing 777 aircraft operating the flights.

The Turbat-Sharjah route was restored after four months, while the Turbat-Al Ain route resumed operations after five months. ATR aircraft are being used for flights on these routes.

The Gwadar to Muscat route was restored after 13 months, with ATR aircraft operating the flights.

Similarly, the Quetta to Jeddah route resumed operations after 3 years and 4 months, with ATR aircraft being used for the flights. The Faisalabad-Jeddah and Faisalabad-Madinah routes were restored after three years and four months, with Airbus A320 aircraft operating the flights.

The Lahore-Kuwait route was restored after seven months, with Airbus A320 aircraft being used for the flights.

The Aviation Ministry stated that seven routes were suspended due to a shortage of aircraft, while the Islamabad-Paris route was restricted by the European Union.

Read More: PIA direct flights to UK to resume in Febraury: Khawaja Asif

Earlier on January 11, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that Pakistan PIA is set to resume direct flights to the United Kingdom (UK) by the end of February 2025.

Speaking during ARY News programme “Aiteraz Hai”, Khawaja Asif stated that PIA will also launch flights to 19 European destinations, including Barcelona and Milan.

Additionally, the airline plans to start flights to the United States and Canada, he added. Asif said PIA’s value to increase with these developments, making it more attractive for privatization.

He said that PIA has been working to revive its operations and reputation after facing significant challenges in recent years.

PIA restores eight international routes in last six months

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has restored eight international routes in the last six months, ARY News reported citing details

arynews.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA delegation in UK to discuss resuming flights

A high-level delegation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) reached the United Kingdom (UK) to review flight operation arrangements, ARY News reported.

The team, led by Chief Operating Officer Khyber Mashriq, will assess the preparations for direct flights to the UK, scheduled to commence in March.

During their visit, the PIA officials will inspect flight operation arrangements in London, Manchester, and Birmingham. The airline has already finalised its plan for flight operations in the UK and has also issued a tender for catering services.

The visit is part of PIA’s efforts to restart direct flights to the UK, which were suspended in 2020.

According to sources PIA will utilise its Boeing 777 aircraft for flight operations in the UK. Furthermore, strategies are being developed for flights to various European sectors.

PIA delegation in UK to discuss resuming flights

LONDON: A high-level delegation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) reached the United Kingdom (UK) to review flight operation arrangements, ARY News

arynews.tv

 

[FearlessRoar]

PIA seeks approval to lease Heathrow slots to Saudi Airlines for 2025​

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has formally requested Airport Coordination Limited (ACL), the global airport slot coordinator, to lease two of its London Heathrow slots to Saudi Airlines for the 2025 summer season, a spokesperson confirmed on Sunday.

The lease request follows PIA’s ongoing restrictions in the UK and US, despite the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifting a four-year ban on the airline in November 2024. The ban was originally imposed in June 2020 over concerns about Pakistan’s aviation safety standards, following a Karachi plane crash that killed 97 people and an investigation into pilot license irregularities.

PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan told Arab News that the airline has sought a "slot swap" from ACL, allowing Saudi Airlines to use the Heathrow slots from April 5 to October 25, 2025. The slots were previously leased to Vietnam Airlines, whose term expires in April.

Since facing European restrictions, PIA has used a "babysitting option" to retain its Heathrow slots by leasing them to Turkish Airlines, Saudi Airlines, and Vietnam Airlines. The airline previously held 10 Heathrow slots, with six leased to Turkish Airlines and two each to Saudia and Vietnam Airlines.

Although PIA has resumed flights to Europe, including a recent Islamabad-Paris service, it remains barred from the UK and US. Last month, a delegation from the UK’s Department for Transport and Civil Aviation Authority visited Pakistan to assess aviation safety protocols. The UK Safety Review Board is set to decide on PIA’s operational clearance in a meeting scheduled for March 12-13.

“If Pakistan receives permission to resume its own flights to the UK, we will gradually reclaim these slots for our own operations,” Khan stated.

Meanwhile, PIA continues to struggle with financial instability. The debt-ridden airline, which posted losses of $270 million in 2023 and holds liabilities nearing $3 billion, remains a key target for privatization by the Pakistani government. An earlier attempt to sell the airline fell through after a potential buyer offered significantly less than the asking price.

Officials hope that the reopening of European routes will pave the way for further operational recoveries, potentially leading to future expansion in the UK market.

PIA seeks approval to lease Heathrow slots to Saudi Airlines for 2025 | The Express Tribune

PIA leased its European slots after a 2020 EASA ban over Pakistan’s aviation safety concerns

tribune.com.pk

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA ‘set’ to resume direct flights to US

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is gearing up for the revival of the direct flights to the United States (US), ARY News reported, citing sources.

As per details, hopes for direct flights revival to the US by PIA as a delegation from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is scheduled to visit Pakistan in mid-March for a final clearance inspection, sources said.

The five-member FAA team will assess Pakistan’s aviation standards to determine eligibility for Category 1 status, a prerequisite for resuming direct flights to the United States.

According to sources, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the resumption of direct flights between Pakistan and the US has already been signed.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is accelerating efforts to regain Category 1 status, which was downgraded to Category 2 following a European and UK ban on Pakistani flights.

Direct flights between Pakistan and the United States were suspended in 2017. Before the suspension, PIA operated six weekly flights to the US, including four to New York and two to Chicago.

PIA 'set' to resume direct flights to US

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is gearing up for the revival of the direct flights to the United States (US), ARY News reported, citing sources. As

arynews.tv

 

[FearlessRoar]

This gives goosebumps because we were desperate to see these moments in Pakistan

https://twitter.com/x/status/1891391464585781357

 

[Energy]

This gives goosebumps because we were desperate to see these moments in Pakistan

https://twitter.com/x/status/1891391464585781357

This is a very good story indeed. Mood lifter.

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA gears up for resumption of UK flights

The aviation authority in the UK is expected to finally lift a ban on the flight operations of PIA in its territory at its upcoming meeting as the national flag carrier plans to revive its direct flight to Manchester from Islamabad on March 28.

The UK Department for Transport's Safety Review Board is likely to meet on March 15. Pakistan expects that its airlines will finally be allowed to resume their flights to the UK.

In the first phase, the national airline plans to operate flights from Islamabad to Manchester. In the second phase, the PIA will start flights from Islamabad and Lahore to London and Birmingham.

PIA management has issued tenders for ground handling, catering, and crew hotels to complete arrangements for UK flight operations.

According to a PIA spokesperson, they are waiting for the UK Department for Transport's decision. If the decision is positive, flight operations will start immediately.

He said The UK market is a very important route for PIA's network. Passengers will be provided with international-standard services.

PIA gears up for resumption of UK flights | The Express Tribune

PIA gears up for resumption of UK flights

tribune.com.pk

 

[hassan918]

PIA aircraft set to roar for UK destinations after Eid​

LONDON (Haseeb Arslan) – The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) continues to salvage its pride as it is expected to resume direct flights to the United Kingdom after Eidul Fitr.

The announcement was made by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK Dr Mohammad Faisal during an Iftar dinner in London. The dinner was attended by journalists as well as social media influencers.

PIA’s direct flights to the UK destinations will swim the skies three months after the national flag carrier resumed its Europe operations after four-year hiatus.

As for PIA’s UK travel, it will restart flights from London and Manchester to Pakistan in the first phase. Efforts are being made to restore services from Birmingham in the near future.

Dr Faisal confirmed that a special ceremony would be held to mark the re-launch, with media representatives invited to witness the event.

UK TEAM INSPECTION

Earlier, a delegation of the United Kingdom’s Department for Transport and Civil Aviation Authority conducted safety audit of Pakistan’s aviation standards.

The UK team examined aviation safety protocols, reviewed documentation and evaluated operational procedures in Pakistan, according to the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA).

SENATE BRIEFING

In a briefing in Senate a couple of months earlier, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar informed the participants that PIA’s direct flights to the UK were likely to resume within two to three months.

Replying to a calling attention notice by Sherry Rehman about the grounding of PIA aircraft amid an unclear privatisation plan, the minister said all-out efforts were being made for the resumption of PIA’s flights to the UK.

RESUMPTION OF FLIGHTS TO EUROPE

The dawn of Jan 10, 2025 brought a moment of pride for the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) as its ‘big bird’ sailed in the skies for the first direct flight to a European country after a hiatus of four years.

The PIA flight took off for Paris with its near optimum passenger capacity amid buzz at the New Islamabad International Airport.

The resumption of PIA’s direct flight to European destinations became possible after the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifted ban, which had been in place since 2020.

The PIA announced its decision to resume flights to Paris in a statement on its Facebook account: “We are thrilled to announce that EASA has officially lifted the ban on Pakistan International Airlines, which is a significant milestone enabling the airline to resume flights to Europe.”

The EU aviation regulator withdrew PIA’s permission to operate in the region after Pakistan began probing a scandal over the validity of pilots’ licences in the aftermath of a plane crash that killed 97 people in Karachi.

According to a Reuters report, “the PIA will approach Britain’s Department for Transport (DfT) for permission to resume routes to the UK. Once cleared by the DfT, London, Manchester, and Birmingham would be priority destinations.”
The ban caused a loss of nearly $150 million a year to PIA, officials say.

Airline spokesman Abdullah Hafeez said that after more than four years the first direct flight from the capital Islamabad to Paris would resume.

Source: Dunya News

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA to remain on UK's air safety list, confirms transport department

The UK Department for Transport confirmed on Tuesday that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) would remain on the air safety list.

A spokesperson for the department said that the UK Civil Aviation Authority was in contact with Pakistani authorities regarding the issue.

The Department of Transport told Geo News: “All Pakistani air carriers remain on the UK Air Safety List. We are engaging with the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, along with the UK Civil Aviation Authority, about their status on the list and there is a robust process to follow before airlines are delisted.”

The UK Air Safety List is the published list of countries and airlines that are subject to an operating ban on safety grounds and so cannot fly planes to, from or within the UK.

All air carriers certified by the authorities with responsibility for regulatory oversight of Pakistan are banned from operating commercial air services to, from, and within the United Kingdom, stated an official UK government website.

PIA to remain on UK's air safety list, confirms transport department

UK Civil Aviation Authority in contact with Pakistani authorities: spox.Development means Pakistani carriers cannot operate in UK.Ban was enforced in 2020 following fake pilot licence scandal.

www.geo.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

PIA To Resume Europe Flights From Lahore

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will resume nonstop service between Lahore and Paris in June as the carrier looks to rebuild its European network following the lifting of a four-year ban by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

The weekly service between Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport will commence on June 18, operating using Boeing 777-200LR aircraft. It will complement PIA’s existing 2X-weekly Islamabad–Paris service, which resumed in January, and is the sole nonstop link between Pakistan and France at present.

PIA To Resume Europe Flights From Lahore | Aviation Week Network

PIA will resume nonstop service between Lahore and Paris in June as it looks to rebuild its European network following the lifting of a four-year ban by EASA.

aviationweek.com