KARACHI: A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight was forced to abort takeoff at Islamabad International Airport after the aircraft veered to one side during the takeoff roll, marking yet another safety incident for the beleaguered national carrier.
According to details, the flight PK-309, operating on aircraft AP-BLC, was in the process of taking off when the captain noticed the aircraft deviating from its intended path. The pilot immediately discontinued the takeoff and returned the aircraft to the bay, leaving passengers in a state of uncertainty and concern.
The incident comes just days after another PIA aircraft experienced repeated technical malfunctions for two consecutive days, raising serious questions about the airline’s operational oversight, maintenance standards, and resource availability.
PIA comes under severe criticism over repeated technical malfunctions
Meanwhile, the Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP) issued a statement, expressing alarm over the recurring safety incidents and emphasizing that passenger safety must be a priority decision rather than a post-event justification.
The statement clarified that all licensed aircraft engineers are performing their duties strictly in accordance with the Pakistan Civil Aviation Rules, Air Navigation Orders (ANOs), and the PIA Engineering Procedures Manual. “This compliance is a legal requirement. Calling adherence to safety procedures a ‘strike’ is incorrect and misleading,” SAEP said.
The SAEP further said that while the PCAA is indeed the regulator for airworthiness, the responsibility to certify each aircraft as safe for flight rests with licensed aircraft engineers, as per international civil aviation law.
“If an engineer is not satisfied with the technical condition of an aircraft or the traceability of a part, they are legally obligated to withhold certification until compliance is ensured. This is the foundation of global aviation safety,” the statement added.
SAEP said that PIA aircraft would only be certified for flight when found in full compliance with approved maintenance procedures, traceable parts, and regulatory standards. “This is our professional and legal responsibility to the travelling public of Pakistan. Safety is not negotiable, but SAEP remains available for constructive dialogue for restoring PIA’s operational stability and protecting the safety and reputation of the national carrier,” the statement said.
Furthermore, SAEP revealed that multiple engineers who raised safety concerns have received warning letters, show cause notices, and dismissals.
On the other hand, the ongoing standoff between PIA management and aircraft engineers has garnered global attention, causing international embarrassment for the airline’s top-brass.
The global representative body of licensed aircraft engineers - Aircraft Engineers International (AEI) has condemned the retaliation faced by Pakistani aircraft engineers after they raised documented safety concerns regarding PIA maintenance operations.
AEI has confirmed that the matter will now be addressed at relevant international regulatory and technical forums, and SAEP pledged full cooperation to ensure accuracy, transparency, and protection of aviation safety standards in Pakistan.
The ongoing deadlock has resulted in widespread flight disruptions on Tuesday, with multiple cancellations and significant delays affecting PIA’s both domestic and international routes.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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