Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority Awaits UK Audit Results
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) is awaiting the results of a scheduled audit by the UK's Department for Transport, which will evaluate the country's aviation standards and potentially lead to the resumption of direct Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to the UK.
The audit, which is being conducted from January 27 to February 6, aims to assess Pakistan's licensing protocols, aircraft airworthiness, and flight standards. The UK's Department for Transport has expressed confidence in Pakistan's preparedness, with a seven-member team conducting the audit. The successful outcome of the audit could lead to the reinstatement of direct PIA flights to the UK, which would boost the airline's financial health and position it for privatization.
The ban imposed in 2020 due to safety concerns has significantly affected PIA's operations and revenue, with an estimated loss of PKR84 billion rupees (USD301 million). The airline is keen to restart flights to the UK, which would allow it to recoup revenue and improve its financial situation. The UK Civil Aviation Authority officials have visited Pakistan to conduct a safety audit, which could pave the way for PIA to resume flights to the UK by March or April 2025.
The PCAA is hopeful about the outcome, citing extensive preparations regarding international aviation safety requirements. The successful completion of the audit is expected to pave the way for Pakistani airlines to resume direct flights to the UK, which were banned in 2020 following the discovery of fake licenses held by local pilots. The audit results are expected by March or April 2025, and a positive outcome could also lead to the resumption of flights to the US and EU.
The resumption of direct flights to the UK would be a significant boost to PIA's financial health and would also enhance the country's aviation industry. The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority is working closely with the UK's Department for Transport to ensure a successful audit and pave the way for the reinstatement of direct flights.