On January 10, 2025, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) resumed flights to Europe after the European Union lifted a four-year ban. This marks a major milestone for the airline, which had been grounded due to safety concerns.
The EU imposed the ban in June 2020 following a deadly crash in Karachi that killed nearly 100 people. Human error and a scandal involving questionable pilot licenses prompted the EU’s decision. The ban also followed a 2016 incident where a PIA aircraft caught fire mid-flight, resulting in over 40 fatalities.
However, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifted the ban on November 29, 2024. The agency acknowledged that Pakistan had made sufficient improvements to its aviation safety oversight.
Despite this, PIA is still banned from flying in the UK and the US. The reopening of European routes has, however, sparked new hope for the airline. It may even signal a step toward privatization.
The government sees PIA’s return to Europe as a chance to attract foreign investment. Privatization efforts have been ongoing for years but have faced setbacks. In 2023, the airline reported losses of $270 million, with liabilities nearing $3 billion.
PIA’s recovery is crucial for Pakistan’s economy. The government is committed to privatizing the airline to ease the state’s financial burden. Officials hope transferring PIA’s debts to a holding company will make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Though PIA has faced challenges like fuel shortages and a poor safety record, the resumption of flights to Paris offers hope for a fresh start. Improved safety oversight and the return to European skies could be the turning point for the struggling airline.
Shumaila Rana, a passenger on the first flight to Paris, felt both excitement and nervousness during her journey. “I’m hoping it’s gonna be a good flight,” she said, reflecting the mixed emotions of many passengers.
The EU’s decision signals a positive shift for PIA, offering the airline a chance to recover and grow.
