PIA for direct flights to United States

KARACHI: The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Air Marshal Arshad Malik on Wednesday requested a delegation of the United States (US) for facilitating PIA to have direct flights to the US cities including New York, Chicago, Houston and others as flying to the US via any en-route transit make the flight economics unviable.

Talking to the US delegation led by Consulate General of the United States of America JoAnne Wagner, which was on visit to PIA head office, Arshad Malik said that presently security situation in the country had improved tremendously and relevant aviation and security agencies of foreign countries of Europe and Canada had shown their confidence over the recent developments, according to a press release.

He also briefed the delegation about PIA's plan to expand its fleet by acquisition of new aircraft.

PIA CEO apprised the US delegation about getting certification and approvals from IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) and other agencies.

Air Marshal Arshad Malik said that with opening of New Islamabad International Airport the security concerns had been tackled at all levels. Resumption of British Airways and other western carriers was proof of it.

Responding to a question, he said that in the forthcoming National Aviation Policy he expected a level playing field for all stakeholders.

JoAnne Wagner assured to help in facilitating by contacting the relevant the US departments in resolving PIA issues including having direct access to the US main land.

"We are optimistic about relations to grow in the future between both countries," said the US Consulate General. She said that USA was very keen to improve and strengthen the ties between the two countries especially the business and trade relations.

She said that significant potential existed between both the countries to grow.

Wagner took deep interest in the performance of PIA and asked questions about airline's future plans.

While appreciating the PIA's performance under the new management, she assured of the follow up in facilitation to PIA.

JoAnne Wagner on the occasion was accompanied by senior officials of diplomatic corp of the US Consulate.