After a four-year suspension, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has lifted its ban on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The airline is now set to resume flights to the European Union.
“EASA has lifted the suspension of the third country operator authorization issued to Pakistan International Airlines,” the EASA said in a statement released on November 29, 2024.
The suspension, which was imposed in June 2020, stemmed from concerns about the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority’s (PCAA) ability to uphold international aviation standards following a tragic PIA crash.
The fatal accident happened on May 22, 2020, when the carrier’s A320 aircraft was operating a scheduled domestic flight PK8303 from Lahore (LHE) to Karachi (KHI) in Pakistan and crashed into a crowded residential area near its destination. The aircraft was attempting a second landing after an initial failed approach, and its landing gear was still retracted. The first attempt caused significant damage, leading to engine failure during the go-around. Of the 99 people on board, 97 lost their lives, while two survived with injuries. The crash also injured eight people on the ground, one of whom later died.
Investigations into the incident raised questions about pilot qualifications, revealing that hundreds of pilots held questionable licenses.
The flight suspension had a heavy financial impact on PIA, costing the airline approximately $144 million in annual revenue. With the ban now lifted, Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khwaja Asif, expressed hope that this development would breathe new life into the struggling carrier, which has faced significant debt and operational hurdles. Previous attempts to privatize PIA had faltered, as potential buyers offered bids well below the expected value.
“It is a momentous day to announce that the European Commission and European Aviation Safety Agency have lifted the suspension on PIA flights to Europe. […] It is made possible due to the complete focus of the Aviation Ministry to strengthen PCAA ensuring safety oversight in line with ICAO standards. Our Government has taken significant measures to strengthen PCAA including the enactment of the PCAA Act, smooth segregation of regulator and service providers, appointment of professional leadership, and training to build the capacity. I am grateful to the European Commission and EASA for conducting a transparent process and our commitment to ensure Aviation safety in Pakistan,” the Aviation Minister wrote in a social media post.
PIA’s return to European routes marks a crucial step forward for the airline. However, flights to the United States remain restricted.
