Post by : Rameen Ariff

KARACHI – Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is currently experiencing significant flight disruptions following the dismissal of crucial officials from the Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP). This has intensified tensions between the national airline and its engineering personnel, entering a sixth-day standoff that impacts both local and international routes.

As of Sunday night, PIA confirmed the cancellation of nine flights and delays to 18 others primarily due to technical malfunctions and a lack of spare parts. International routes impacted include flights from Abu Dhabi to Peshawar, Dubai to Karachi, and Faisalabad to Dubai. Domestic flights, particularly from Gilgit to Islamabad and Skardu to Islamabad, have also seen delays extending up to ten hours.

The crisis was triggered by PIA's decision to terminate the SAEP president and secretary general after they missed scheduled personal hearings on November 4 and 5. Although the airline’s management insists the dismissals were warranted, the labour community views this as a clear instance of retaliation.

The Air League, representing workers alongside the Officers’ Association, has publicly condemned the dismissals and is advocating for their immediate restoration. “Addressing safety concerns in a passenger context should never be seen as a punishable offense,” stated Air League President Shamim Akmal. He also cautioned that PIA is navigating a particularly precarious phase characterized by financial mismanagement, and ignoring safety can heighten operational dangers.

This dispute with the SAEP adds to the growing operational challenges for PIA, with management accusing the engineering body of attempting to obstruct the airline’s privatization efforts. Officials argue that the work stoppages are a strategic move to disrupt the airline’s functioning and leverage pressure on the leadership.

Labour representatives are urging PIA to find a resolution through constructive conversations, stressing that the safety of passengers and seamless airline operations should remain paramount.

Travelers are advised to verify their schedules frequently and remain informed about potential changes in operations as PIA continues to manage flight delays amidst rising tensions.

#Global