The European Union has decided to uphold its ban on Pakistani airlines, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), due to ongoing safety concerns. Following a thorough evaluation by the EU Air Safety Committee, it was determined that there were still issues with safety procedures and staff shortages within the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA).
Despite the PCAA presenting a corrective action plan to address these deficiencies, the EU committee emphasized the need for continuous monitoring and progress reporting from the authority. The EU also stressed the importance of government support and stable leadership within the PCAA.
While the possibility of future reviews and hearings with the PCAA remain, the decision to maintain the ban is seen as a setback for PIA’s operations in European countries. Aviation experts express disappointment over the missed opportunity to revive PIA’s presence in Europe, impacting the government’s investment efforts.
Overall, the EU continues to prioritize safety standards for air carriers certified in Pakistan and urges member states to conduct ramp inspections to verify compliance with international safety standards.
Published in Dawn, June 3rd, 2024