The long-awaited resumption of Pakistani airlines’ flights, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), to the United Kingdom (UK) has been delayed due to recent air safety incidents, sources revealed.
According to insiders, two critical aviation mishaps significantly impacted the decision-making process regarding the lifting of the ban on Pakistani carriers.
Key incidents affecting decision
Wrong Runway Landing: During the visit of a British aviation safety team to Pakistan in February, an aircraft landed on the wrong runway.
PIA Flight Landed Without Tyre: Before the March 20 Air Safety Committee meeting, another incident occurred in which a PIA flight landed without a tyre.
Both events are believed to have played a crucial role in the ongoing assessment of Pakistan’s aviation safety standards.
British air safety team’s assessment delayed
The British aviation safety team, which visited Pakistan in February, was tasked with compiling an assessment report on whether to restore flight operations. However, sources indicate that the team needs more time to evaluate various factors, including safety protocols, procedural improvements, and data analysis.
The team has been given 40 to 50 days to finalize its report, which will be submitted before the next British Air Safety Committee meeting in May or June.
Decision expected in May or June
Despite media speculation about an imminent decision, sources clarified that lifting the ban was never on the agenda of the March 20 meeting. The actual decision is now expected to be made during the next meeting, tentatively scheduled for May or June.
Background of Ban
The UK suspended flights of Pakistani airlines, including PIA, in 2020 following safety concerns raised after the fake pilot license scandal. While Pakistan has made significant reforms in aviation safety, operational lapses continue to delay the resumption of flights.
