The Pakistan Airline Pilots Association (PALPA) has refused to fly planes apparently after four PIA pilots were suspected of having coronavirus.

In a statement issued in Karachi on Sunday, the PALPA blamed negligence on the part of the PIA administration for their decision.

According to PALPA General Secretary Captain Narejo, who issued the statement, the standard operating procedures (SOPs) regarding coronavirus are being ignored for the flights.

He said “There would be no compromise on the safety of the PALPA members whose health is paramount for us.”

The PALPA decision may lead to suspension of the partial restoration of PIA’s flights operation.

Earlier 24NewsHD TV channel reported that the four-member PIA cockpit crew included two pilots and two first officers were suspected of having coronavirus. They have been shifted into self-isolation at a private hotel near Karachi Airport where tests will be run on them and if found positive they will be transferred to a quarantine centre.

The four-member cockpit crew had returned from a ferry flight from Britain. The authorities have now sealed the plane and taking specimens from its cockpit.