After nearly four and a half years and a financial loss of approximately Rs450 billion, Pakistan’s aviation authority succeeded in convincing European regulators that Pakistani airlines, including PIA, now comply with safety standards, leading to the resumption of operations in the European Union (EU).
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had initially imposed a six-month ban on Pakistani airlines on June 30, 2020, following a PIA plane crash in Karachi that exposed fake licenses for 262 pilots. However, the suspension extended well beyond six months, resulting in significant financial losses—approximately Rs400 billion for PIA and Rs50 billion for other Pakistani airlines.
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From November 19 to 21, a European Air Safety Committee meeting in Brussels reviewed the safety oversight measures implemented by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). EASA, after analyzing these measures, granted authorization to PIA, confirming its compliance with European safety standards.
According to EASA’s statement, PIA is now entitled to apply for operating permits to resume commercial air transport in the EU, provided it remains compliant with Part-TCO regulations. A spokesperson for EASA acknowledged the “significant efforts” made by PCAA in ensuring compliance.
The ban initially grounded 262 of Pakistan’s 860 pilots, including 141 of PIA’s pilots, due to questions over license validity. While no major concerns surfaced during investigations, the suspension remained, affecting 58 weekly flights to Europe, including 46 to England.
PIA celebrated the decision, emphasizing its dedication to adhering to international aviation standards. The airline has started preparations to restore European operations and is expected to receive a Transport Certificate of Operation (TCO) shortly, allowing it to resume flights soon.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the development, thanking the PCAA, aviation authorities, and PIA management for their efforts. He highlighted the financial and reputational benefits this decision would bring, particularly for Pakistani expatriates in Europe. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also lauded the milestone, expressing optimism about PIA’s revitalization and its privatization prospects.
This decision marks a turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector, showcasing its commitment to international safety protocols and restoring trust in its national carrier.
