Delays in Resuming Pakistani Airline Flights to the UK Due to Air Safety Concerns

The long-awaited reinstatement of flight operations by Pakistani airlines, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), to the United Kingdom (UK) has been postponed due to recent air safety incidents, according to sources.
Insiders reveal that two significant aviation mishaps have considerably influenced the decision-making process regarding the removal of the ban on Pakistani carriers.
Key Incidents Impacting Decision
Incorrect Runway Landing: During a visit by a British aviation safety team to Pakistan in February, an aircraft landed on the wrong runway.
PIA Flight Landing Without a Tire: Prior to the March 20 Air Safety Committee meeting, another incident occurred where a PIA aircraft landed without a tire.
Both events are believed to have played a critical role in the ongoing evaluation of Pakistan’s aviation safety standards.
British Air Safety Team’s Assessment Postponed
The British aviation safety team, which conducted a visit to Pakistan in February, was tasked with compiling an assessment report on the potential restoration of flight operations. However, sources indicate that the team requires additional time to evaluate various factors, including safety protocols, procedural enhancements, and data analysis.
The team has been granted 40 to 50 days to finalize its report, which will be submitted before the next British Air Safety Committee meeting scheduled for May or June.
Decision Anticipated in May or June
Despite media speculation regarding an imminent decision, sources clarified that lifting the ban was never on the agenda of the March 20 meeting. The actual decision is now expected to be made during the subsequent meeting, tentatively scheduled for May or June.
Background of the Ban
The UK suspended flights of Pakistani airlines, including PIA, in 2020 following safety concerns arising from the fake pilot license scandal. While Pakistan has implemented substantial reforms in aviation safety, operational lapses continue to hinder the resumption of flight operations.