Special allowance approved for PIA engineering staff amid privatisation move

The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Board of Directors has given in-principle approval to provide a special allowance to its Engineering Department, recognising the team’s performance and the airline’s possible privatisation, a spokesperson said.

The decision, under consideration for some time, was announced following a board meeting that reviewed the department’s performance over the past two years. The briefing highlighted adherence to modern safety standards and the efforts made to regain permission for European and UK operations, which had been suspended for five years.

The board conducted a comparative assessment of the Engineering Department against domestic and international aviation practices. Officials praised the team for comprehensive aircraft maintenance and for preparing the fleet to return to active service.

Directives were also issued to expedite all approvals required for PIA’s privatisation. In addition, the board reviewed plans to transfer more of the airline’s assets to a government-owned holding company. Approval was granted for the repair of critical aircraft engines and spare parts, ensuring the airline is ready to meet its operational goals next year.

The spokesperson said the board’s decisions aim to strengthen PIA’s operational capacity and support the ongoing transformation of the national carrier.