Pakistan's airport security protocols appreciated by UAE aviation team
The United Arab Emirates General Civil Aviation Authority (UAE-GCAA) has
confirmed that the security protocols at Islamabad and Karachi airports in
Pakistan meet international standards. This announcement came following a
comprehensive inspection aimed at enhancing the country's aviation security
measures.
In 2020, Pakistan’s aviation sector faced intense scrutiny when it was
discovered that approximately 262 out of 860 active pilots had fake licenses.
This led to the grounding of about 150 pilots from Pakistan International
Airlines (PIA) and other carriers. The scandal, which emerged after the tragic
crash of PIA Flight 8303 in Karachi, prompted the suspension of PIA’s
operations in the EU and other regions and spurred calls for regulatory reforms
to improve safety and transparency.
Read More UAE
aviation team conducts security audit at Karachi Airport
Last month, a two-member UAE delegation, led by senior GCAA director
Abdullah Al Kaabi, conducted a week-long evaluation of Islamabad and Karachi
airports. Their visit included assessments in the federal capital before proceeding
to Jinnah International Airport in Karachi.
“Security protocols are in line with international standards and prevailing
best practices,” said Al Kaabi, as quoted by the Pakistan Civil Aviation
Authority (PCAA). “The visit of the UAE-GCAA team has been completed.”
During their inspection, the delegation reviewed passenger and baggage
screening, cargo, and catering facilities. They also assessed direct flights
from the UAE, ground handling, and cargo agents, as well as airport access
security and aircraft security checks. The team expressed satisfaction with the
protocols in place and praised the efforts of the Airport Security Force, cargo
companies, and other stakeholders.
Read More UAE
Aviation’s assessment continues at Pakistani airports
The PCAA noted that this UAE-GCAA visit was the first of its kind, following
similar assessments conducted by the United Kingdom Department for Transport
earlier this year.
Pakistan and the UAE share longstanding fraternal relations, with several
airlines operating multiple daily flights connecting major Pakistani cities
such as Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and
Dubai in the UAE.
Source: Daily Pakistan