EU Lifts All Operating Restrictions on PIA Fleet

PIA wishes to inform the traveling public and its customers that the ban imposed by the European Union (EU) on part of its fleet to operate in Europe, has now been completely removed. The decision to remove the ban was conveyed following a review of the comprehensive measures taken by the Airline to overcome EU's Concerns. The review took place in Brussels on 20th September 2007 in a meeting of the Air Safety Council of European Union. The decision has been notified by the European Union today.

The EU had imposed the ban on 4th March, 2007 which prevented the Airline from flying its fleet of Boeing 747s and Airbus 310s to Europe. To overcome the EU's concerns, PIA had developed a comprehensive recovery plan to strengthen its systems and procedures relating to the upkeep and airworthiness of its fleet

The European Union has shown satisfaction over the progress made by PIA. In a statement from the Transport Commissioner of European Union, Mr. Jacques Barrot said, "When Airlines take rapid and sound corrective action to comply with safety standards, they can be withdrawn from the list of restricted airlines quickly".

The PIA Management, while expressing its satisfaction over this development, has renewed its commitment and resolve to continue pursuing and maintaining the highest international aviation safety standards in its entire global operation including both, European and non European, destinations.