Pakistan is gearing up for a critical audit by the United States aviation authorities as part of efforts to resume direct flights between Pakistan and the US after a long suspension.
According to officials, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has completed most of the groundwork ahead of the upcoming inspection by the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The audit, expected in the coming weeks, will assess airport security protocols, safety standards, and compliance with international aviation requirements.
The CAA spokesperson stated that all major airports, including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, have undergone extensive upgrades in passenger screening, baggage handling, and security management systems. These improvements aim to meet TSA standards, a key step toward restoring direct connectivity that was halted in 2017 due to security concerns.
If Pakistan clears the audit, it could pave the way for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to operate direct flights to US destinations such as New York and Chicago, significantly benefiting business travelers, expatriates, and tourism.
The resumption of direct flights is also seen as a potential boost to Pakistan’s aviation sector, which has faced mounting financial and operational challenges in recent years. Officials believe that improved international confidence in Pakistan’s air safety measures will help attract more global airlines to expand operations in the country.
Analysts note that this development aligns with Pakistan’s broader efforts to enhance aviation safety, comply with global standards, and rebuild its reputation following previous restrictions by international regulators.
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