F.P. Report
ISLAMABAD: In a major breakthrough for Pakistan’s aviation industry, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has officially lifted the ban on Pakistani airlines, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), allowing them to resume direct flights to Europe.
The decision marks a turning point after a three-year suspension, which began in 2020 following concerns over licensing and safety issues.
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif welcomed the news, stating: “We have undergone numerous audits over the years. In the most recent audit, Pakistani airlines were rated better than many global carriers. This is a testament to our improved safety standards and operational excellence.”
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…
In a statement published on his official X account, the minister also highlighted that during the PTI government, PIA faced severe challenges and was on the verge of collapse. He further announced that TCO authorisation had been granted to the second Pakistani airline: Airblue Limited.
“It is made possible due to complete focus of Aviation Ministry to strengthen PCAA and ensuring safety oversight in line with ICAO standards. Our Govt has taken significant measures to strengthen PCAA including enactment of PCAA Act, smooth segregation of regulator and service providers, appointment of professional leadership and training to build the capacity. I am grateful to European Commission and EASA for conducting a transparent process and our commitment to ensure Aviation safety in Pakistan,” he posted.
The EASA suspended the PIA from operating in EU member states for six months, starting July 1, 2020, following concerns over pilot licensing issues. The PIA spokesperson announced that the decision had been taken after former aviation minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan revealed that 262 pilots held “dubious” licenses. In response, EASA stated that its investigation had uncovered a “large share” of invalid pilot licenses.
“EASA has temporarily suspended PIA’s authorisation to operate to the EU member states for a period of 6 months effective July 1, 2020, with the right to appeal against this decision,” a PIA statement said.
The airline had also announced the temporary suspension of all flights to European destinations, offering passengers the option to reschedule their bookings or request a full refund. However, PIA later secured a two-day relief, allowing its flights to land in Europe and the UK from July 1 to 3, 2020, with overflight permissions remaining in place until further notice.
Confirming the move, the EASA had in a statement referred to an investigation by Pakistan, which it said showed a “large share” of pilot licences to be invalid. “The PIA is in contact with EASA to allay their concerns and to take necessary corrective measures along with filing the appeal against the decision,” its press release had said.
The national airline “sincerely hopes that with reparative and swift actions taken by the Government of Pakistan and PIA management, earliest possible lifting of this suspension can be expected”, it added.
