Mess at PIA

The national flag carrier is in a self-inflicted crisis. The ongoing tussle between the flight engineers and the management is now scaling new heights of discord. It is a nightmare for none but the passengers who off and on find themselves stranded, and are in a dilemma of having to choose PIA to fly with! The prolonged quarrel, now in its third month, has led to the dismissal of two engineers, who are also the office-bearers of the Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan, raising the stakes for a full-fledged showdown at the expense of the customers and the national exchequer.

The PIA management, however, maintains that the engineers were on a strike, and the impugned act is in contravention of the Essential Services Act wherein strikes or abandonment of work is a legal offence. The engineers, who were up in arms for seeking a better pay-package and emoluments, argue that "they were at work" and it is just that they were not obliging the management with clearance certificates for aircraft without astute professional inspection. While this aspect has disrupted flying itinerary, it is being construed as a delaying tactic on the part of the technical workforce.

The claim and counter-arguments from both the sides are worth a salt, and need a generous hearing. A judicious inquiry into the puzzle could iron out the extreme positions and help the airline stay afloat. Also noticeable is the management's allegation that the protesters intend to delay or sabotage the proposed privatisation of the national carrier. Likewise, the engineers' defence that they cannot compromise on flight worthiness taking into account the aging aircraft standards is on the mark.

PIA, which is sinking with liabilities and has reported Rs4.6 billion net loss during last year, is in need of a surgical strategy to steer clear of extinction. It is also an admitted fact that it is infected with nepotism, corruption and an unprofessional aura, leading to its dismal performance. Rightsizing and reforms are a foregone conclusion, and what is desired instantly is to honour the dignity of labour and expectation of its valued customers without any delay.