PIA restricts
cabin crew to carry only one packet of cigarettes
Pakistan International
Airlines (PIA) has introduced a new restriction limiting the number of
cigarettes cabin crew members can carry while travelling on flying duty.
Under the new directive, crew members will be permitted to carry only
one packet of cigarettes, containing a maximum of 20 cigarettes, while
performing official flying duties.
The restriction was introduced after five PIA flight attendants
were reportedly found carrying a large quantity of cigarette packets while
travelling on duty.
According to a PIA circular, exceeding the prescribed limit will
constitute a violation of the airline’s instructions and may result in
disciplinary action against the staff concerned.
Employees found breaching the directive could face suspension or
removal from flying duties, depending on the action taken by the airline.
Investigation
Underway
The incident reportedly involved five cabin crew members
travelling on a PIA flight from Multan to Jeddah several days ago.
The crew members were allegedly found carrying a significantly higher number of
cigarette packets than permitted.
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PIA’s Human Resources department has initiated an investigation
into the matter, and disciplinary proceedings against the five employees are
underway.
The airline has also instructed relevant officials to
communicate the new cigarette limit to cabin crew members during pre-flight
briefings.
PIA has made compliance with the directive mandatory and
directed all cabin crew to observe the prescribed limit whenever travelling on
official duty.
The new measure comes as the airline tightens oversight of staff
conduct and compliance with operational instructions during international and
domestic duty travel.
Source:
Pro Pakistani