The long-anticipated resumption of flights by Pakistani airlines, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), to the United Kingdom (UK) remains on hold due to recent air safety incidents, sources revealed.
Key Factors Behind the Delay
Two significant aviation mishaps have influenced the decision to keep the ban in place:
- Incorrect Runway Landing: During a visit by a British aviation safety team to Pakistan in February, an aircraft mistakenly landed on the wrong runway.
- PIA Flight Landed Without a Tyre: Ahead of the March 20 Air Safety Committee meeting, another incident occurred where a PIA aircraft landed without a tyre.
These incidents have raised concerns over Pakistan’s aviation safety standards, affecting the assessment process for restoring flights.
Assessment by British Aviation Authorities
A British aviation safety team visited Pakistan in February to evaluate safety protocols and operational improvements. However, sources indicate that the team requires additional time for analysis. Their final report is expected within 40 to 50 days and will be submitted before the next British Air Safety Committee meeting, scheduled for May or June.
Decision Timeline
Despite speculation, lifting the ban was never part of the agenda for the March 20 meeting. The actual decision on reinstating flights is now anticipated in the upcoming meeting in late spring or early summer.
Background on the Ban
The UK suspended flights of Pakistani airlines in 2020 following concerns over aviation safety, particularly after the pilot license fraud scandal. While Pakistan has since implemented reforms, recurring operational lapses continue to delay the lifting of restrictions on flight operations.
