The dispute between the PIA management and Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP) has led to the disruption of flight operation at the country’s airports, including Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Wednesday.
PIA flight from Lahore to Karachi, PK-303, was cancelled.
Similarly, airline’s another Karachi-bound flight, PK-305, was delayed by six hours; the airline’s flight from Dammam to Lahore, PK-248, was delayed by 22 hours; the airline’s Karachi to Lahore flight, PK-302, was cancelled.
Likewise, the national flag carrier’s another Karachi to Lahore flight, PK-306, was also cancelled, while the airline’s Karachi to Lahore flight, PK-304, was delayed by 10 hours.
The bone of contention between the PIA and the SAEP is an attempt by the former to bypass its certified engineers by acquiring external engineering services.
“The national flag carrier, instead of taking action to address SAEP concerns, is acquiring third-party engineering services, which is against PCAA and ICAO rules,” SAEP President Abdullah Jadoon said, warning that the airline’s shortcuts could compromise passenger safety and regulatory compliance.
SAEP maintains that only its certified engineers, who hold proper authorizations under the PCAA regulations and ANO-145 requirements, are legally permitted to certify aircraft for the national carrier.
The crisis has left thousands of passengers facing unprecedented disruptions, with flight delays stretching up to 14 hours and multiple cancellations.
A PIA spokesperson confirmed the severe operational breakdown, revealing disturbing delays that exposed the airline’s inability to restore flight operations.
Reporter: Saeed Ahmad