The Aircraft Owners and Operators Association Pakistan (AOOA) has revealed that more than 130 pilots are currently grounded as their licenses have not been renewed by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). The AOOA issued a press statement, calling on relevant officials to amend the Civil Aviation Act of 2023, claiming that it has negatively impacted the aviation industry and is being misused.
According to the AOOA, the PCAA is not renewing licenses, leaving these pilots unable to operate flights. The association demanded a revision of the legislation, citing its adverse effects on the aviation sector. They expressed particular concern about the Civil Aviation Act of 2023, asserting that it is unacceptable to the aviation industry in its current form.
The AOOA also criticized the delegation of powers to the director general of PCAA, stating that other relevant departments have taken a back seat in the decision-making process. The association highlighted that, despite 130 pending license renewals, PCAA officials seem uncertain about who will sign these renewal documents.
In response, the PCAA contested the claims, stating that the procedure for obtaining or renewing a pilot’s license continues, and current regulations are being strictly adhered to. The spokesperson for the PCAA refuted the notion that pilots are unable to fly, emphasizing that the issuance and renewal process of licenses has not been halted.
The AOOA announced its intention to prepare amendments to the new law and submit them to the aviation committee of the parliament. The association raised concerns about the full authority given to the federal government to appoint a non-professional and non-technocrat director general, potentially allowing a generalist to assume the post.
Meanwhile, the PCAA emphasized that local airlines have the authority to hire foreign pilots, by the regulations set by the PCAA. Once approved by the ministry, foreign pilots are granted a work visa, and subsequently, they are issued a validation certificate. The conflicting narratives between the AOOA and the PCAA underscore the complexity of the situation, with potential implications for the aviation industry and the careers of grounded pilots.
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