PIA flight disruptions worsen as engineers’ dispute deepens amid transfers, safety concerns

Following the transfer of six aircraft engineers from Peshawar to Karachi, the dispute between Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) management and the Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP) intensified, further disrupting the airline’s operations and causing widespread flight cancellations and delays across major airports.

According to media reports, at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, flights PK302 and PK306 to Lahore were cancelled, while PK304 was delayed by 10 hours. PK501 to Turbat and PK370 to Islamabad also faced significant delays. 

In Islamabad, flights PK601, PK602, and PK604 on the Gilgit route were cancelled, while PK741 to Jeddah was delayed by four hours. Flights to Karachi and Skardu also faced delays. 

At Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport, flights PK303 and PK302 between Lahore and Karachi were cancelled, while PK305 faced a six-hour delay. PK248 from Dammam to Lahore was delayed by 22 hours.

In Peshawar, flights PK218 and PK286 to and from Doha were delayed by 18 hours each.

The SAEP denied reports of a strike, stating that all engineers were on duty and adhering strictly to aviation safety standards. “Our members are clearing only those aircraft that are fully airworthy. Passenger safety cannot be compromised under any circumstances,” the association said in a statement.

The engineering body criticised the transfer of engineers as “an unnecessary move” that could worsen operational issues, while clarifying that it does not oppose the airline’s privatization if it ensures professional management and structural stability. 

SAEP also demanded a salary increase after eight years and the timely supply of aircraft spare parts to maintain compliance with international aviation standards.

Meanwhile, Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Zeb Jaffar informed the National Assembly that PIA had recorded brackly newss for the first time in nearly two decades. She said the airline earned Rs23.4 billion in 2022 and Rs6.8 billion in the first half of 2023 due to improved efficiency and restructuring.

Jaffar added that despite financial improvements, privatization remained necessary due to accumulated liabilities. She clarified that no Rs24 billion bailout had been provided, explaining instead that the airline received bridge financing from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority to maintain operations.

The National Assembly chair referred the issue to the relevant committee for further discussion.