Daily Times

Sir: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is entering a potentially dark chapter as its corporate image has been badly devastated due to the continuous violation of air safety regulations, long flight delays and cancellation of flights. The maintenance of PIA’s aircraft is intentionally being ignored. It is in fact passing through a critical phase because of poor management, lack of maintenance and corruption. There are complaints of dreadful service. These issues create disappointment among passengers. They feel fear and risk to their lives while travelling on PIA. PIA in the past was known all over the world for its tremendous performance and exceptional attributes. That was the golden period for PIA. Presently, it is suffering from an intense financial crisis. PIA is facing deprivation in terms of money. It is a popular rumour that PIA will be privatised. There is no doubt that the financial crisis, mismanagement and corruption are the root causes of the airline’s decline but privatisation is not the solution. The government should bring reforms. The state entity should acquire back its transport routes, make ticket prices affordable and match competition. The airline should not hire personnel on a political basis and stop giving free transport to ministers and VIPs. PIA should plan its flight schedule using operational aircraft. PIA has to overcome its weaknesses. Instead of wasting money on lining up fashion shows in five-star hotels for electing new dress codes for the crew members, they should concentrate and try to overcome the worsening conditions of the only international airline of Pakistan because the airline that once assisted other airlines is now losing control over itself.

SARAH ALI BHUTTO
Karachi