Flights canceled and delayed because engineers claim lack of airworthiness; They demand salary increases and better working conditions.
The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) passenger plane sits on the tarmac, seen through the plane window, at Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad, Pakistan, October 27, 2024. Photo: Reuters/File
The ongoing dispute between the national airline and its aeronautical engineers has led to widespread flight disruptions, with dozens of flights delayed and several cancelled.
Engineers stated that they only issue flight clearances once they are completely satisfied with the safety of an aircraft, emphasizing that aircraft are cleared to take off only once they are deemed fit to fly.
Six aeronautical engineers stationed at the Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar were recently transferred to Karachi, the Society of Aeronautical Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP) said. He clarified, however, that engineers continue to perform their duties and are issuing authorizations for aircraft that are considered fit to fly.
Read: PIA restores flight operations after attempted disruption
The SAEP reiterated that its members will not give in to management pressure and will not compromise passenger safety or flight standards under any circumstances.
Their demands include an increase in wages, which they say have remained stagnant for the past eight years, along with the timely supply of aircraft spare parts and a better work environment.
During the ongoing protest, engineers from a private company authorized only two flights: from Peshawar to Jeddah and from Islamabad to Dammam.
Read more: PIA begins restoring flight operations after engineers’ dispute
Meanwhile, flights PK302 and PK306 from Karachi to Lahore were cancelled, while PK304 was delayed by ten hours. PK370 from Karachi to Islamabad was delayed by three hours.
PK218 from Peshawar to Doha was delayed by 18 hours, as was PK286 from Doha to Peshawar.
