Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is facing a major crisis as its aircraft engineers have stopped issuing airworthiness clearances, grounding dozens of flights nationwide. The dispute, which began Monday night, has brought international flight operations to a near standstill, leaving thousands of passengers, including many Umrah pilgrims, stranded at airports across the country.
Nationwide Flight Operations Disrupted; Thousands of Passengers and Umrah Pilgrims Stranded
Sources said the protest began around 8 p.m. on Monday and since then, no international flight has taken off. At least 55 flights have been affected so far, with five cancelled across major airports in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Twelve international flights have been delayed or cancelled, adding to the growing frustration of travellers.
Among the affected flights are two Karachi–Skardu services and one Lahore–Karachi flight. Lahore–Muscat flights PK-329 and PK-330 were also cancelled. Karachi–Lahore flight PK-302 was delayed by over 14 hours, while Islamabad–Gilgit routes PK-601 and PK-602 could not operate due to the ongoing dispute.
Engineers Demand Fair Pay and Safer Work Conditions as Airline Management Threatens Legal Action
The Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP) said its members have stopped work in protest against the airline’s management and CEO, accusing them of ignoring their long-standing concerns. The engineers claim they have not received a salary increase in eight years and have been forced to work with a shortage of spare parts. They argue that management pressure to clear unfit aircraft compromises passenger safety.
The engineers had been wearing black armbands for over two months to highlight their grievances. However, they say management refused to engage in dialogue. The SAEP maintains it cannot risk passenger lives under current conditions.
PIA’s CEO has ordered strict disciplinary action against engineers involved in the strike. He warned that the Pakistan Essential Services (Maintenance) Act, 1952, prohibits such walkouts, and violators will face legal consequences. The airline’s spokesperson dismissed the engineers’ union as unofficial, alleging the strike is intended to sabotage PIA’s ongoing privatisation process.
Despite the chaos, PIA claims it is arranging engineering support from other airlines to restore flight operations soon.
