PIA’s deteriorating operational status traced to alleged mismanagement
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has faced significant operational
challenges, reducing its fleet from 33 aircraft to just 16 available for both
domestic and international flights.
Sources indicate that the airline's deteriorating operational status stems
from alleged mismanagement, particularly within its engineering department. Of
the original 33 aircraft, 17 are currently grounded due to a lack of spare
parts, pending engine checks, and other maintenance issues. This includes a
notable number of the long-haul Boeing 777s, of which PIA owns nine and leases
three.
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management issues disrupt air travel in Pakistan
The airline reportedly lacks the financial resources to repair its inactive
planes or acquire necessary spare parts, further complicating an already
critical situation. On Wednesday, Pakistan's Parliamentary Secretary for
Communication, Gul Asghar Khan, announced that the final auction of the
state-owned PIA Corporation is scheduled for October 30.
Khan explained that the privatization process for PIA, initiated in February
2024, is nearing completion. He stated that the efforts align with
recommendations from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which advised the
Pakistani government to divest loss-making state enterprises to help stabilize
the economy.
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grounds 9 aircraft due to spare parts shortage
Despite receiving multiple government bailouts totaling approximately USD
2.9 billion in recent years, PIA continues to struggle financially. With six
bidders pre-qualified for its sale, the government hopes that privatization
will help restore trust and alleviate the financial burdens PIA places on the
national treasury.
Source: Times of Oman