Lower house passes bill on ‘revitalising’ PIA

Pakistan Airports Authority Bill, 2022, and the Pakistan Civil Aviation Bill, 2022 passed with careful deliberation

ISLAMABAD:

The National Assembly on Thursday passed the Pakistan Airports Authority Bill, 2022, and the Pakistan Civil Aviation Bill, 2022, after a thorough clause-by-clause reading and the incorporation of necessary amendments.

The bills were moved by Minister for Aviation Khawaja Saad Rafique.

Speaking at the floor of the House, the minister underscored the need to restructure Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to tackle its staggering deficit which remained at Rs80 billion this year.

He warned that if immediate reforms were not adopted, this deficit may escalate further in the coming days.

He said both the bills aimed at fulfilling international requirements, adding that PIA services would be restored to various destinations including the US, Europe, and Britain.

The bills mark a crucial step towards revitalsing the national flag carrier and ensuring compliance with international standards.

The primary focus of these bills is to ensure that the regulatory body and airport authority operate independently, thereby eliminating any concerns about layoffs within the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The minister rejected rumours of downsizing within the aviation department and clarified that no CAA employee would face unemployment due to the restructuring efforts.

He emphasised that these measures were intended to benefit overseas Pakistanis and their families, who often bear the burden of exorbitant fares on other airlines.

He said that a statement from the former federal minister created problems for PIA, assuring that all audits and tests had been cleared successfully, demonstrating their commitment to transparency and accountability.

Regarding the outsourcing of airports, the minister clarified that it did not equate to privatisation. Citing examples from other countries, including India, he stated that outsourcing aimed to improve airport operations through the engagement of proficient operators.

He pointed out that even Madina Airport had been outsourced successfully for enhanced services.

APP