EASA refuses to lift ban on PIA flights to Europe
The European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) has upheld its ban on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)
flights to Europe, citing the airline’s continued failure to meet safety
guidelines. EASA emphasized that PIA must implement effective corrective
measures to lift the ban, indicating persistent non-compliance with safety
standards.
Background of the ban
PIA flights to Europe and the UK
have been suspended since 2020 after EASA revoked the airline’s authorization.
This revocation followed a pilot license scandal that emerged after a fatal
plane crash in May 2020, leading to the grounding of 262 of Pakistan’s 860
pilots, including 141 from PIA.
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European Commission's Statement
“The European Union Aviation Safety
Agency considers that at this time there are no grounds for amending the list
of air carriers subject to an operating ban within the Union concerning air
carriers certified in Pakistan,” stated a European Commission spokesman.
Assessment Findings
An EU on-site assessment conducted
in Pakistan in November 2023 revealed that while Pakistan’s Civil Aviation
Authority (PCAA) adheres to international safety standards, there are
significant shortcomings, such as insufficient staffing and inadequate internal
verifications.
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maintains ban on Pakistani airlines amid safety concerns
Privatization Plans
In response to the ongoing
challenges, the Pakistani government plans to privatize PIA by mid-2024, a
requirement set by the IMF. Six companies, including Air Blue and Arif Habib
Corporation, have been shortlisted for the bidding process.
The continuation of the ban
underscores the need for comprehensive reforms within PIA to meet international
safety standards and regain its authorization to operate in Europe.
Source: ProPakistani