THE Pakistan International Airlines has clarified a news report published in Dawn on Sunday (Dec 10) under the headline, “PIA’s foreign operations to be suspended if standards not improved”.

According to a PIA press release, there is no likelihood of suspension of PIA flight operation solely on the basis of SAFA (Safety Assessment of Foreign Aircraft) index.

The airlines said “inspections are a regular feature in aviation. After inspections some findings are given and it takes some time to take corrective measures”. Turning to the A320 plane cited in the Dawn report, the press release said it was inspected in Dubai in September and follow-up action taken by the airline on the basis of the assessment.

The Dawn story had quoted the SAFA inspection report as saying not only was the A320 aircraft out of shape, but also that its crew lacked training and was found using outdated maps.

It further said PIA had been told that if standards did not improve, its foreign operations could face suspension.

Published in Dawn, December 12th, 2017