TLDR:
• EU lifts ban on PIA flights
• Defence minister calls it historic
• PIA eyes global routes and revival
ISLAMABAD (The Thursday Times) — The European Commission and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have lifted the ban on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), marking a historic moment for the national carrier. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif hailed this as a landmark achievement, crediting the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for ensuring compliance with international safety standards. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also congratulated the leadership and teams involved, calling it a momentous occasion for Pakistan’s aviation sector.
A historic milestone for Pakistan’s aviation
The ban, imposed in 2020 following safety concerns, dealt a severe blow to PIA’s international operations. Khawaja Asif termed its lifting a “historic milestone,” acknowledging the relentless efforts of the CAA and Ministry of Aviation in meeting global regulatory benchmarks. He expressed optimism that this breakthrough would open the door to further relaxations, particularly from the United Kingdom and other countries that had enforced similar restrictions.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar congratulates stakeholders
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar extended his congratulations to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Aviation Minister, the CEO of PIA, and the CAA team. Dar applauded their collective efforts in achieving this milestone, describing the lifting of the ban across the entire European Union as “wonderful news” for Pakistan’s aviation industry. His remarks underscored the teamwork and dedication that led to this long-awaited breakthrough.
Congratulations to Prime Minister, Defence & Aviation Minister, CEO PIA, CAA and the entire team for the wonderful news of lifting of the ban on PIA flights in entire European Union countries. AlhamdoLilah 🤲 pic.twitter.com/L5MH44yb7f
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) November 29, 2024
Compliance and reforms drive change
PIA’s return to European skies comes after exhaustive reforms spearheaded by Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority. These measures addressed critical safety and operational gaps highlighted by European regulators. The Defence Minister noted that this progress reflects Pakistan’s commitment to modernising its aviation sector, bolstered by significant policy changes aimed at enhancing oversight and governance.
Lifting of Suspension on Pakistani Airlines
Issuance of Third Country Operator (TCO) Authorization to PIA and Airblue
It is a momentous day to announce that European Commission and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has lifted the suspension on PIA flights to Europe. Not…— Khawaja M. Asif (@KhawajaMAsif) November 29, 2024
PIA’s global aspirations take flight
With European routes now within reach, PIA is preparing to restore key operations that were suspended for over three years. The airline’s management views this as a turning point for its financial recovery and operational expansion. Khawaja Asif also highlighted that the lifting of the ban strengthens the government’s efforts to privatise PIA, making it more attractive to investors by showcasing its compliance with international standards.
CAA’s instrumental role in lifting the ban
The Civil Aviation Authority’s leadership played a pivotal role in achieving this outcome. Under the guidance of Director General Nadir Shafi Dar, the CAA implemented rigorous measures to align Pakistan’s aviation policies with global safety norms. Khawaja Asif praised the CAA’s dedication, describing the outcome as a victory for the entire nation and a testament to the resilience of Pakistan’s aviation industry.
Paving the way for broader opportunities
The lifting of the European ban signals renewed hope for PIA’s future, with expectations that other global markets, including the UK, will follow suit. This step not only restores confidence in Pakistan’s aviation sector but also underscores the potential for the national carrier to reclaim its standing on the international stage.
