Karachi: PIA spokesman referring to news appearing on TV News Channels regarding PIA flight PK 451 and PK 452 Islamabad -Skardu -Islamabad of Monday 16 th July which was delayed due to Islamabad / en-route unfavourable weather conditions and passengers complained. The spokesman said that flights to Gilgit and Skardu are subject to weather and the same is also mentioned on the tickets. The flight was delayed by 2 hours from its originating destination that was Islamabad to Skardu and consequently the return flight was delayed. He said that as per SOP, a sms message is sent to PIA passengers regarding flights status and the same was also sent to the passengers of the returning flight PK 452 Skardu-Islamabad who were waiting at the airport. The same was also communicated by PIA staff at the airport. PIA regrets the inconvenience caused to its passengers due to weather consequential delay. He said that PIA has planned to re-commence Air Safari flight after a gap of almost two decades. Pakistan’s northern areas are blessed with tremendous natural beauty. The scenic Northern areas remain under-utilized from a tourism perspective. Influx of tourists’ traffic will bring in revenues and opportunities for Northern areas. PIA is committed to expanding tourism in Northern areas of Pakistan including Skardu. In this regard the routing of PIA’s regular flight for Islamabad -Skardu-Islamabad has been changed for 15-20 minutes and en- route the aircraft flies over the scenic Karakoram range with live commentary on board. This flight is no way a separate flight. He said that the inaugural flight usually carries guests from travel, entertainment, social and business circles to promote the service. This flight included revenue as well as some guests. PIA spokesman added. Referring to the passengers complaints regarding non availability of facilities such as air-conditioning and wash rooms at the airport, PIA spokesman said that PIA would work with concerned authorities to improve the facilities at Skardu airport which the passengers complained about. PIA spokesman concluded. Published in Daily Times, July 18th 2018.