PIA retrieves Airbus A320 stranded in Jakarta for two years
PIA successfully brought back one of its two stranded Airbus A320
aircraft from Jakarta, marking the end of a two-year grounding period. The
aircraft, which arrived in Karachi via Bangkok on Tuesday night, represents a
significant milestone for Pakistan International Airlines.
An airline spokesperson shared that the anticipation is high for
the imminent return of the second aircraft, further reinforcing PIA's domestic
and international service capabilities. The successful resolution involved the
payment of $13 million for the release of the first aircraft, with a similar
payment expected for the second, scheduled to rejoin the PIA fleet soon. This
development increases the PIA's total fleet to 16 planes.
PIA
send delegation to Jakarta to resolve Airbus A320 aircraft dispute
This achievement is a crucial step in PIA's ongoing efforts to
modernize its fleet and enhance operational efficiency. The return of these
aircraft not only signifies a new beginning for the airline but also promises
passengers expanded options, contributing positively to Pakistan's aviation
sector.
In October, a delegation led by Aviation Secretary Saif Anjum
visited Indonesia to facilitate the repatriation of the two stranded Airbus
A320 aircraft at Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The delegation
included PIA CEO Air Vice Marshal (retd) Muhammad Amir Hayat, Chief Engineer
Amir Ali, and East Management Deputy Engineer.
Two
PIA aircraft stranded in Jakarta for two years
It's worth noting that PIA had returned two leased Airbus A320
aircraft in September 2021, originally acquired in 2012, resulting in
significant financial losses due to parking expenses. The monthly maintenance
costs for these aircraft amounted to approximately $600,000. Despite the
airline's proposal to cover additional expenses, including maintenance checks,
the leasing company, AirAsia, declined to sell the planes with registration
numbers AP-BLY (msn 2926) and AP-BLZ (msn 2944).
Source: Express Tribune