Flights canceled, delayed as engineers cite lack of airworthiness; demand wage increases, improved working conditions
A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) passenger plane sits on the tarmac, seen through an aircraft window, at Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad, Pakistan October 27, 2024. Photo: Reuters/ File
The ongoing dispute between the national airline and its flight engineers has led to widespread flight disruptions, with dozens of flights delayed and several cancelled.
Engineers stated that they only issue flight clearances when they are fully satisfied with an aircraft’s safety, stressing that aircraft are only cleared for take-off when they are deemed airworthy.
Six aircraft engineers posted at Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar were recently transferred to Karachi, the Society of Aircraft Engineers Pakistan (SAEP) said. However, it clarified that the engineers continue to carry out their duties and issue permits to aircraft deemed fit to fly.
Read: PIA resumes flight operations after disruption attempt
SAEP reiterated that its members will not bow to management pressure and will not compromise passenger safety or flight standards under any circumstances.
Their demands include an increase in wages, which they claim has been stagnant for the past eight years, along with timely delivery of aircraft spare parts and an improved working environment.
During the ongoing protest, engineers of a private company approved only two flights – from Peshawar to Jeddah and Islamabad to Dammam.
Read more: PIA begins restoring flight operations after engineers dispute
Meanwhile, flights PK302 and PK306 from Karachi to Lahore were canceled while PK304 was delayed by ten hours. PK370 from Karachi to Islamabad was delayed by three hours.
PK218 from Peshawar to Doha faced an 18-hour delay, as did PK286 from Doha to Peshawar.
