Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operations were brought to a standstill across the country after aircraft engineers launched a protest against the airline’s management, according to ARY News.
Sources revealed that tensions between the PIA administration and the Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP) escalated, prompting engineers to stop granting flight clearances. The engineers have vowed not to resume duties until the behavior of the PIA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) changes.
As a result, numerous domestic and international flights have been grounded. The PIA CEO has reportedly instructed the Chief HR Officer to initiate strict disciplinary action against those responsible for the disruptions, emphasizing that “engineers accountable for flight delays must face consequences.”
The protest has led to widespread cancellations and delays, particularly on international routes. Affected flights include PK747 and PK744 (Lahore–Madinah), PK741 and PK736 (Islamabad–Jeddah), as well as PK761 and PK832 (Karachi–Jeddah). Other disrupted routes include Karachi–Lahore–Abu Dhabi (PK263, PK264), Karachi–Islamabad–Dubai and Peshawar (PK233, PK284), and Karachi–Islamabad–Dammam (PK245, PK246).
According to airport sources, after 8 PM, no international flight departed from Karachi Airport due to the engineers’ refusal to clear aircraft for takeoff.
The unrest comes just days after PIA celebrated the resumption of its UK route after a five-year suspension, marking a key milestone with twice-weekly flights to Manchester. A ceremony at Islamabad Airport—attended by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif—marked the occasion, with a large Manchester-themed installation unveiled.
However, the current standoff now threatens to derail the airline’s recent progress and further harm its international reputation.
