Pakistan has hailed the European Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) decision to lift the nearly four-year ban on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to Europe, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasizing the positive impact it will have on Pakistani expatriates.
“The lifting of the ban reflects the success of Pakistan’s aviation reforms and will make air travel significantly easier for Pakistanis living in Europe,” PM Sharif said on Friday, according to state broadcaster Radio Pakistan. He also highlighted that the decision would enhance PIA’s reputation and provide much-needed financial relief to the national flag carrier.
EASA suspended PIA’s authorization in June 2020, citing concerns about Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and its ability to adhere to international aviation standards. The suspension came shortly after a fatal PIA crash in Karachi that killed 97 people, leading to an investigation that revealed irregularities in pilot licensing.
The ban has cost PIA approximately 40 billion Pakistani rupees ($144 million) in annual revenue, according to government data presented in parliament. Efforts to privatize the airline earlier this year failed when the only bid fell short of expectations.
In response to the ban being lifted, PIA reiterated its commitment to maintaining compliance with EASA’s regulations.
“The PIA administration will continue to fully adhere to EASA’s rules and regulations,” the airline said in a statement, welcoming the decision as a significant milestone for the company.
The move is expected to reopen vital European routes for PIA, providing a much-needed boost to the airline’s operations and offering greater convenience to travelers between Pakistan and Europe.
