Government’s privatization claims: In a recent report, the government privatized state-owned enterprises in January 2025. However, the privatization is not finalized yet. The privatization of PIA remains a widely discussed issue, but no concrete steps have been taken to resolve it. US aviation authorities to inspect PIA: PIA has been working hard to revive international …
PIA Seeks Upgrade and US Flight Approval For International Expansion
- Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is at a critical turning point.
- The final inspection report will decide if it moves from Category II to Category I, a key requirement for resuming direct flights to the United States.
Government’s privatization claims:
In a recent report, the government privatized state-owned enterprises in January 2025. However, the privatization is not finalized yet. The privatization of PIA remains a widely discussed issue, but no concrete steps have been taken to resolve it.
US aviation authorities to inspect PIA:
PIA has been working hard to revive international flight operations. The airline resumed flights to the European Union (EU) and is in discussions to restart operations in the United Kingdom. Now, it aims to secure approval from US aviation authorities.
Also Rad: Pakistan Approves PIA Privatization Transaction Structure
A five-member team from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will visit Pakistan in mid-April. Their task is to inspect and evaluate PIA’s standards. The outcome of this inspection will decide whether PIA can resume direct flights to the US.
The 2020 flight ban and its impact:
PIA faced major restrictions in July 2020. The EU, UK, and US banned PIA flights after a shocking revelation. Pakistan’s aviation minister exposed a scandal. It revealed that some pilots had obtained licenses without proper training.
PIA operated six weekly flights to the US before the ban. These included four flights to New York and two to Chicago. During the COVID-19 pandemic, PIA received special permission to operate chartered flights to the US. However, regular commercial operations have remained suspended.
Security measures:
PIA has banned photography and videography in its aircraft maintenance zones. Officials took the step to stop individuals from capturing unauthorized photos and videos. It posed serious security risks and violated confidentiality rules. As per PIA rules, only authorized personnel can capture the aircraft maintenance zone.
Anyone who violates this rule will face strict disciplinary action. The airline emphasized that these security measures are essential to protect sensitive maintenance operations.
