Large number of pilots flew using fake licenses; how the scandal hit the airline

ISLAMABAD: Once considered the pride of Pakistan, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is now facing huge financial losses. The government is preparing to sell the airline through an auction as a way to reduce its massive debt. For Pakistan’s business community, the downfall of PIA—once known for its reliability and revenue—has been shocking.

PIA’s collapse began in 2020. The biggest blow came when questions were raised about the credibility of its pilots. Nearly 30% of PIA’s pilots were found to have suspicious or fake licenses. Many of them were reportedly flying aircraft using licenses that were either fraudulent or obtained through questionable means. This marked the beginning of a serious crisis.

When the issue became public, passengers began to lose trust in PIA. Authorities were then forced to take action against the pilots involved. Around 262 pilots were grounded, which left the airline unable to operate many of its flights. This resulted in huge financial losses.

As the matter gained international attention, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) banned PIA flights to Europe in June 2020. Losing these high-revenue routes caused the airline to miss out on millions of dollars every year. The UK and the US also imposed similar bans citing safety concerns. These restrictions pushed PIA into the severe financial troubles it faces today.