Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has praised the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for lifting the ban on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to Europe. This long-awaited decision is a significant development for Pakistan’s national flag carrier, which had faced restrictions on flying to European destinations for several years.
In a statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Aviation Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) officials, and PIA’s management for their concerted efforts in achieving this important milestone. The Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating that it was the result of the hard work and dedication of various stakeholders in the aviation sector.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the lifting of the ban will not only bolster the reputation of PIA but also bring substantial financial gains to the airline. This move is expected to increase PIA’s connectivity with European markets, enhancing its ability to serve the large Pakistani diaspora residing in Europe. The Prime Minister noted that this development will also contribute to improving air travel options for Pakistanis living abroad, making their travel more convenient and affordable.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister underlined that this achievement is a testament to the success of Pakistan’s aviation policies, which have focused on improving safety, quality, and international standards. With this significant step, Pakistan aims to further strengthen its aviation sector and enhance its standing in the global air travel industry.
The lifting of the flight ban is expected to lead to a boost in PIA’s operations and provide a much-needed boost to Pakistan’s aviation industry, fostering stronger ties with European nations.