PIA resumes flight operations after engineers’ protest halts services

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has started restoring its flight operations after a protest by aircraft engineers disrupted schedules and grounded several flights. The airline’s management confirmed that operations have been resumed through alternative arrangements.

According to PIA, flight PK-245 from Islamabad to Dammam and PK-761 from Islamabad to Jeddah have departed, while clearance for other affected flights is being issued quickly. The management stated that no one will be allowed to cause hurdles at airports or create difficulties for passengers.

Sources said that since 8pm on Monday, PIA’s international flights could not depart due to the engineers’ protest, leaving many flights delayed and passengers stranded. A large number of the affected travellers were Umrah pilgrims.

The protest began after aircraft engineers objected to the behaviour of the airline’s CEO and stopped providing clearance for flights. The Society of Aircraft Engineers has declared that they will not return to work until the CEO’s attitude changes.

In response, the PIA CEO has reportedly ordered strict action against the engineers involved in the protest. The airline’s spokesperson said the management is acquiring alternative engineering services from other airlines to ensure flight operations continue smoothly.

The spokesperson added that the Society of Aircraft Engineers holds no legal standing, claiming their move is an attempt to sabotage the national airline’s privatisation process. He said that using safety concerns as a pretext to collectively halt work is a deliberate conspiracy.

He further stated that the Essential Services Act is in effect at PIA, which makes strikes or work stoppages illegal, and legal action will be taken against those responsible.