EASA Set to Announce Decision on PIA’s Europe Flight Operations

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is anticipated to make a crucial announcement today regarding the potential resumption of flight operations to Europe for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

The suspension was initiated in 2020 by the UK and several EU countries due to concerns regarding the authenticity of Pakistani pilot licenses.

An EASA delegation recently comprehensively evaluated various operational facets of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and PIA. This included assessments of licensing, flight safety standards, and aircraft airworthiness. The EASA team concluded their visit with expressions of satisfaction regarding the improvements and measures implemented by the CAA and PIA.

Additionally, a security assessment team from the UK Department for Transport (UK-DfT) has reviewed and approved the security protocols at Islamabad International Airport. Their evaluation covered a range of procedures, from passenger and crew handling to baggage delivery, vehicle screening, and the security of aircraft and cargo.

Officials from the Airport Security Force (ASF) provided detailed briefings to the British team, outlining enhanced security measures specifically tailored for flights to the UK.

Amidst these developments, PIA has initiated preparations to resume its flight operations to the United Kingdom, with plans to operate 22 weekly flights. PIA has requested proposals for in-flight catering services at London, Manchester, and Birmingham airports as part of these preparations. Companies are asked to submit their bids by June 27, 2024.

The Pakistani government has enacted the Pakistan Essential Services (Maintenance) Act, 1952, to ensure smooth operations. Enforced by the Ministry of Interior for six months, this act allows PIA to take disciplinary actions against employees who fail to comply with lawful orders, aiming to maintain uninterrupted airline services.