Appeal: PIA requests govt to induct 20 fuel-efficient aircraft

Chairman appreciates management, employee efforts for betterment of airline.

LAHORE:

The Pakistan International Airlines management is making efforts to persuade the government to induct 20 fuel efficient aircraft in its fleet. This was stated by Secretary Aviation and PIA Chairman Muhammad Ali Gardezi during the oath taking ceremony of the newly-elected officers of the PIA Senior Staff Association (PIASSA) on Friday.

The airline has inducted four Boeing 737-800 narrow body aircraft in its fleet which has saved fuel consumption by 50%, compared to the airline’s A310 aircraft. He said that all efforts are being made by the management to reduce costs, increase revenue and to induct fuel efficient narrow body aircraft in its fleet.

“All the unions and associations have fully supported the management,” said Gardezi. “The employees are expected to put in their sincere efforts for the betterment of the airline which will be beneficial not only for PIA employees but also its stakeholders and the passengers as well.”



He said that suggestions for improvement were also welcomed from employees as he appreciated the efforts put in by Aijaz Mazhar, director human resources, in this regard.

He further appreciated the performance of PIA employees in successful Hajj operations and hoped that the employees will continue to work with the same zeal and enthusiasm.

Both office bearers, PIA Senior Staff Association President Aqeel Siddiqui and General Secretary Safdar Anjum, in their inaugural address, assured the PIA chairman full support for the betterment of the airline.

Siddiqui requested the PIA management for the inclusion of female officers in the selection process for foreign postings, a matter which was neglected in the past. He also requested the PIA management to look into the matter of pension for retired PIA employees, which is far below than what is being given to government officers.

Anjum said that all valid demands of the officers will be put forward for the management’s consideration concerning promotions and posting.

Senior officials and representatives of PIA’s unions and associations were also present at the occasion.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 11^th, 2014.

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