ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Parliamentary Affairs Murtaza Solangi has urged a comprehensive discussion on the present status of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) in the upcoming session of the Upper House of the Parliament.
Solangi, who also serves as the Information Minister, proposed that a detailed discussion on PIA’s current situation should involve the presence of the Ministers for Aviation and Privatization in the next Senate session. He said that both ministers should inform the House about the factors contributing to the significant losses incurred by the airline.
Addressing a calling attention notice regarding PIA and any potential suspension of flight operations, Solangi highlighted the airline’s enduring challenges over several years. Specifically, he mentioned a PTI government minister whose irresponsible remarks on fake pilot degrees had negatively impacted PIA’s reputation, resulting in the loss of some international routes.
Solangi pointed out that PIA’s issue of overstaffing was not exclusive to a single government department, emphasizing that globally, governments typically did not manage airlines, railways, and transportation services. He emphasized that it was the prerogative of the Parliament to formulate policies on major public issues, noting that the current government was continuing the privatization policy initiated by its predecessor, including PIA in the privatization list.
The minister highlighted the autonomy of Pakistan State Oil (PSO), stating that it could not supply fuel without adequate funds. However, he acknowledged the efforts of the current government in restoring PIA flights that had been temporarily halted due to a fuel shortage.
