PIA Resumes Flights to Europe After Four-Year Hiatus
ISLAMABAD:After a prolonged suspension, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed its European operations, with the first flight landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. The historic flight, carrying 309 passengers, departed Islamabad at 12:40 pm, marking a significant milestone for the national carrier.
Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif officiated the send-off ceremony at Islamabad International Airport, cutting a ribbon and bidding passengers farewell. The minister lauded the occasion as a step towards reclaiming PIA’s lost glory, describing it as “a historic day.”
PIA will now operate twice-weekly direct flights between Islamabad and Paris, strengthening ties between Pakistan and France, and enhancing trade, tourism, and people-to-people connections.
Reflecting on PIA’s Legacy
Speaking at the event, the aviation minister reminisced about PIA’s golden era, when it was a global aviation leader. He expressed regret over the airline’s decline, particularly after damaging allegations in 2020 led to a European Union ban on PIA flights. “Overseas Pakistanis faced inconvenience and higher costs due to connecting flights via hubs like Dubai and Doha,” he said, adding that resuming these flights was a step toward rebuilding the airline’s reputation.
The minister thanked stakeholders for meeting international aviation standards and announced plans to expand routes to the UK and US.
Prime Minister’s Congratulations
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the nation on the restoration of PIA’s European operations. He acknowledged the financial and reputational losses suffered during the ban and commended efforts to restore the airline’s identity. “This step will facilitate overseas Pakistanis and pave the way for new developments,” the prime minister remarked.
Revitalization Plans
PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan highlighted the day as historic but emphasized sustained efforts to fully revive the airline. He revealed plans to expand operations to additional European destinations in response to passenger demand.
Debt-laden PIA has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a ban from European, UK, and US airspaces following safety concerns and allegations of dubious pilot licenses. However, in November, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency lifted the ban, citing improved oversight by Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority.
PIA, which posted losses of $270 million in 2023 and carries liabilities nearing $3 billion, has also faced fuel shortages and domestic flight cancellations. Despite its struggles, the government remains committed to privatizing the airline and hopes that reopening European routes will enhance its market value.
Challenges Ahead
PIA’s operational challenges date back to its nationalization in 1955. While it flourished until the 1990s, recent decades have been marred by financial instability, safety concerns, and mismanagement.
The resumption of European flights marks a turning point, offering hope for the airline’s revival and its ability to compete on the global stage. With plans to expand and modernize operations, PIA is poised to regain its reputation as a key player in international aviation.
