ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Defence on Thursday reaffirmed its support for the government’s decision to privatise Pakistan International Airlines Company Ltd (PIACL), while underscoring the need to preserve the airline’s heritage and protect the rights of its employees.

Chaired by Fateh Ullah Khan, the committee empha­sised that any future operator must ensure that PIA aircraft continue to display the Pakistani flag and the iconic PIA logo, symbols regarded as representations of national pride and continuity.

Members urged that employees be treated with fairness and compassion throughout the privatisation process, with their rights and livelihoods protected.

The committee expressed strong appreciation for the recent resumption of PIA flights to the United Kingdom and France after a five-year suspension, calling it a major step towards restoring Pakistan’s international aviation presence. It commended the Ministry of Defence and the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) for facilitating the development.

Urges flag and logo retention, protection of workers’ rights

During the meeting, the panel reviewed PIA’s operational status and discussed broader strategies to strengthen the aviation sector. The PIACL director-general briefed the committee on fleet development, organisational structure, and plans for expanding domestic and international networks.

Noting positive management steps aimed at reclaiming the airline’s lost stature, members voiced concern over the continued absence of domestic flight operations, which they said affects mobility for a large segment of the population. The committee called for urgent restoration and expansion of domestic air routes.

Published in Dawn, July 18th, 2025