Aviation Association Opposes Foreign Pilot Hiring, Cites 1,500 Jobless Pakistani Pilots

Association Seeks Review of Foreign Pilot Hiring Rules

The Aircraft Owners and Operators Association of Pakistan (AOOA) has urged the government to reverse regulatory changes allowing domestic airlines to hire foreign pilots for up to three years.

In a letter to the Aviation Division, association founder Imran Aslam Khan said around 1,500 Pakistani pilots were unemployed, while local airlines employed more than 150 foreign pilots.

Concerns Over Foreign Exchange Outflow

The association estimated that foreign pilots receive salaries of up to $15,000 per month, resulting in foreign exchange payments of more than $2.25 million every month.

AOOA argued that airlines should give qualified Pakistani pilots more employment opportunities and invest in training local aviation professionals.

Airlines and Regulations

The association raised concerns about the hiring practices of Airblue, Fly Jinnah and AirSial, alleging that they rely heavily on foreign pilots.

It also asked the government to review the three-year licensing arrangements, improve regulatory checks and prevent airlines from using crew rotations to extend foreign pilots' employment.

The association says greater investment in local pilots could support employment and strengthen Pakistan's aviation industry.