US imposes ban on PIA flights over security concerns

ISLAMABAD (92 News) – After European Union Air Safety Agency, the US Transport Department also imposed ban on Pakistani International Airlines (PIA) due to security concerns. According to the reports, the matter of fake licenses of Pakistani pilots has been turned more troubling as the US suspended special flying authorization to PIA. The revelations raised security concerns among other countries as European Union Air Safety Agency has also barred the national carrier from operating flights to the member states. The UK has also imposed a ban. The US department said that the ban has been imposed due to security concerns. Meanwhile, PIA spokesperson has confirmed the ban, saying the US authorities have sent an email in this regard. He vowed that US reservations will be addressed soon. It is pertinent to mention here that the ban comes after Federal Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan said last month that a formal review had found that 262 out of total 860 active pilots were holding dubious licenses or had cheated in exams.