Association seeks investigation into conflicting aviation directives, arguing inadequate crew rest could compromise safety on international flights

KARACHI: The PIA Cabin Crew Association has raised concerns over what it described as negligence in implementing international crew-rest regulations, warning that inadequate rest could endanger both passengers and airline employees.

The association communicated its concerns in a letter addressed to the chief executive officer of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), calling for immediate attention to cabin crew working conditions and flight safety requirements.

According to the association, the Civil Aviation Authority issued two letters on the same day containing apparently conflicting directions regarding mandatory rest periods for crew members.

Association Questions Conflicting Rest Directives

The association said the first communication required double rest after crew members completed 12 hours of flying duty. However, another communication reportedly deferred implementation of the rest requirement.

Consequently, the association argued that the conflicting instructions had created uncertainty over the application of crew-rest standards.

It warned that insufficient recovery time could affect crew members’ alertness and fitness for duty, potentially increasing operational risks during flights.

Furthermore, the association urged aviation authorities and PIA management to examine whether existing schedules provide cabin crew with adequate rest between demanding international assignments.

Jeddah Flight Incident Raises Fresh Concerns

The association also cited a recent incident involving a Jeddah-bound PIA flight in which an emergency door slide was reportedly deployed.

According to the letter, the incident raised questions about crew fitness and whether fatigue could contribute to operational mistakes. However, the association called for a comprehensive investigation rather than drawing conclusions before authorities establish the facts.

It urged officials to examine the matter from all relevant operational and regulatory perspectives and take corrective measures where necessary.

Meanwhile, the association warned that it could approach the courts if authorities failed to address its concerns.

It stressed that regulators and airline management must not overlook the issue because cabin crew working conditions directly affect aviation safety.

The association maintained that protecting passengers and crew members should remain the airline’s highest operational priority.