Pakistan’s National
Assembly passes bills to restructure Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)
The National Assembly on
Thursday passed the Pakistan Airports Authority Bill, 2022, and the Pakistan
Civil Aviation Bill, 2022, after a thorough clause-by-clause reading and the
incorporation of necessary amendments.
The bills were moved by
Minister for Aviation Khawaja Saad Rafique.
Speaking at the floor of
the House, the minister underscored the need to restructure Pakistan
International Airlines (PIA) to tackle its staggering deficit which remained at
Rs80 billion this year.
He warned that if immediate
reforms were not adopted, this deficit may escalate further in the coming days.
He said both the bills
aimed at fulfilling international requirements, adding that PIA services would
be restored to various destinations including the US, Europe, and Britain.
The bills mark a crucial
step towards revitalsing the national flag carrier and ensuring compliance with
international standards.
The primary focus of these
bills is to ensure that the regulatory body and airport authority operate
independently, thereby eliminating any concerns about layoffs within the Civil
Aviation Authority (CAA).
The minister rejected
rumours of downsizing within the aviation department and clarified that no CAA
employee would face unemployment due to the restructuring efforts.
He emphasised that these
measures were intended to benefit overseas Pakistanis and their families, who
often bear the burden of exorbitant fares on other airlines.
He said that a statement
from the former federal minister created problems for PIA, assuring that all
audits and tests had been cleared successfully, demonstrating their commitment
to transparency and accountability.
Regarding the outsourcing
of airports, the minister clarified that it did not equate to privatisation.
Citing examples from other countries, including India, he stated that
outsourcing aimed to improve airport operations through the engagement of
proficient operators.
He pointed out that even
Madina Airport had been outsourced successfully for enhanced services.
Source: APP