PIA clarification

Apropos to media reports claiming that there were technical problems in the engine of the ATR that crashed on December 7, it is reiterated that maintenance of PIA aircraft is done as per manuals at proper times in accordance with international standards. It has already been explained that the aircraft did not have any known defect at the time of take-off from Chitral and some problem developed on the way.
As a routine practice engines of aircraft are checked before every flight and same was done in this case. Engines of ATR aircraft are also changed as per manuals. The matter is being investigated by an independent body, and media is requested to refrain from speculation as it can mislead the public.-PR