THE issue of dubious licenses of Pakistani pilots has drawn international attention with PIA and the pilots both facing the heat of it. The United Kingdom and the European Union have suspended the flight operations of the national flag carrier. Prior to it, Vietnam’s Aviation Authority grounded all the Pakistani pilots working for local airlines amidst concerns from global regulators that some pilots may have been using dubious licenses.
There was a time when PIA and the country’s pilots were highly regarded in the whole world for their sheer professionalism and competence but today the issue of dubious licenses has made the entire country a laughing stock in the world. Government is not to be blamed for this as it took the historic step and the right one of bringing the truth to the fore for the safety and security of the passengers. Whilst domestically the dubious license holders have been grounded but those involved in issuing them fake documents must also be exposed and brought to justice. Then the authorities concerned must take the requisite steps to save the PIA from further suspension of flights and those pilots having legitimate licenses. Firstly, the matter should immediately be taken up with European Union Air Safety Agency (EASA) and the UK to allay their concerns. They must be informed about the action taken against the dubious license holders assuring them that those flying the aircraft now are genuine pilots. These steps should help get the ban lifted. Pakistan Airlines Pilots Association must also be taken on board to ensure that the pilots holding genuine documents are protected against any action. The Association must also act responsibly and should not stand by the black sheep. These indeed are difficult days for the national flag carrier but we are confident that under the able and dynamic leadership of CEO Arshad Malik, it will soon come out of this situation and that efforts will be accelerated to revive the old glory of PIA.
