Rising domestic airfares driven by dollar-based cost pressures, NA told
Parliamentary Secretary for Aviation Zeb Jaffar informed the National Assembly on Monday that the government has implemented firm and immediate measures to stabilize Pakistan’s aviation sector, enhance passenger protection, and enforce strict compliance across private airlines.
She noted that rising domestic airfares were
driven by global, dollar-based cost pressures, emphasizing that the government
was actively working to ensure no airline compromised public interest.
Responding to questions raised by Naeema Kishwar Khan, Shahid Rahmani and Shehryar during Question Hour, Jaffar said that while public concern over fare hikes was understandable, the increases stemmed from international financial factors rather than domestic policy.
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“Aviation is a dollar-driven industry. When key inputs are priced in foreign currency, upward pressure on fares becomes unavoidable,” she explained.
She told the House that decisive action had
already been taken against a private airline responsible for major service
failures.
“The Pakistan
Civil Aviation Authority issued notices, imposed penalties, and suspended
the operator’s licence without delay,” she said.
Jaffar added that penalties for private
airlines—previously capped at Rs 500,000—were being significantly increased
through proposed amendments to ensure stronger compliance.
Addressing a separate question regarding the
national carrier, she reaffirmed that Pakistan
International Airlines (PIA) remains a national asset and that its pilots
are fully competent and professionally trained.
“PIA’s pilots are capable and committed professionals, and the airline continues to serve the nation despite fleet and financial challenges,” she stated.
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She reiterated that enhanced enforcement, stricter oversight and tougher penalties form part of the government’s broader effort to raise service standards and safeguard passenger rights.
“No private airline will be allowed to neglect its obligations or compromise passenger rights,” she concluded.
Source: APP