LAHORE, Aug 1: A PIA official has been suspended from service on the charges of selling boarding cards of crew members to passengers. An official told Dawn on Wednesday that the officials of national airline posted at the Lahore airport used to sell boarding cards of those (crew) members who would not take flights to Islamabad and Karachi in different shifts.

On complaints, the PIA head office constituted a team to probe the matter. In its preliminary inquiry, the team held shift (B) incharge Muhammad Ansar responsible for the irregularities. The head office suspended him from service. Further investigation into the matter is underway.

Lahore airport stationmaster Tariq Shaikh said he had no knowledge about any irregularity. He however confirmed suspension of Mr Ansar. A PIA spokesperson was not available for comments. — Staff Reporter