Appointment of non-medical professional in PIA’s medical services raises eyebrows
A recent audit by the Auditor
General of Pakistan has raised serious concerns about the appointment of a
non-medical professional, Mr. Tariq Hussain Khan, to lead Pakistan
International Airlines' (PIA) Medical Services Department. The appointment of
Khan, a former General Manager (GM) of Cargo, to the role of GM Medical
Services bypasses long-established requirements for medical qualifications and
aviation health expertise, according to the audit report for 2022–2024.
Historically, the GM Medical
Services role was held by a Chief Medical Officer (CMO), a position that
requires specialized qualifications in Aviation Medicine and extensive clinical
experience. However, in 2017, PIA revised the job criteria, removing the need
for a medical degree and allowing candidates with a master’s degree or MBA to
apply. The audit report argues that this change has compromised the medical
integrity of the role and raised safety concerns for both passengers and crew.
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Auditors’ Concerns:
The official audit report critiques the decision, stating, “The appointment of
a non-medical professional to a position that directly impacts health
certification, crew medical monitoring, and aviation safety is unjustified.”
The auditors also raised alarms that this decision undermines international
aviation health compliance and the essential collaboration with airport and
emergency medical facilities.
Recommendations:
In response, the Auditor General has put forward several key recommendations:
- Restore the original position of Chief Medical Officer
(CMO).
- Realign the job description with international aviation
medical standards.
- Reassess Mr. Tariq Hussain Khan’s appointment based on
relevant medical qualifications. The audit stresses the immediate need for
a qualified senior medical professional to be appointed to the role.
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PIA’s Response:
When contacted, PIA spokesperson Mr. Abdullah Khan stated, “There is no new
appointment that poses any safety concerns or harm to passengers technically.
The role is administrative only, and Mr. Tariq Hussain will handle internal
administrative affairs within the organization.”
However, the Auditor General’s
report disputes this claim, arguing that the GM Medical Services position
directly oversees health-related matters in aviation and cannot be confined to
administrative duties alone. The report asserts that such oversight is critical
for the safety and wellbeing of passengers and crew.
Source: Islamabad Post