Islamabad (Web Desk): Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has had its flight operations officially reinstated by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), a decision that marks the end of a lengthy suspension.
This announcement was made by Minister for Aviation Khawaja Muhammad Asif on social media platform X.
The lifting of the suspension comes with the granting of Third Country Operator (TCO) Authorization not just to PIA, but also to Airblue Limited, which paves the way for both airlines to operate in European airspace once again.
Asif attributed this positive outcome to the dedicated efforts of the Aviation Ministry to improve the safety standards within the country’s aviation sector.
A key part of this success, according to him, was the strengthening of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and ensuring that its operations meet the rigorous safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The minister said that Significant reforms have been implemented to improve the PCAA's effectiveness, such as the creation of the PCAA Act, a clear separation between regulatory functions and service provision, the appointment of qualified leadership, and the introduction of training programs to enhance the capacity of the agency.
The minister also expressed gratitude to the European Commission and EASA for conducting a thorough and transparent evaluation process, which he credited as vital in bringing about the resolution.
“This achievement has been lauded as a testament to the government’s commitment to aviation safety and regulatory excellence,” he said.
Nadir Shafi Dar, Director General (DG) of the PCCA, also welcomed the news, confirming that Airblue has similarly received its TCO authorization.
Dar conveyed his thanks to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the aviation minister, and the civil aviation secretary for their unwavering support, which enabled the PCAA to reach this milestone.
He took the opportunity to commend the hard work of his team, whose diligence made this breakthrough possible, and congratulated the nation and the aviation sector as a whole.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday welcomed the lifting of ban on Pakistan Airline (PIA) flights by the EC and EASA.
In a statement issued by the PM Office, the prime minister congratulated Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, aviation ministry, authorities of Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority and PIA management.
He highlighted that lifting of the ban will strengthen PIA’s reputation and benefit it financially.
