Eight Boeing 777: PC objects to procedure for purchasing by PIA
The Planning Commission has raised a number of objections over the procedure adopted by the management of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to purchase eight Boeing-777 aircraft, worth millions of dollars.
According to sources in the Planning Commission, the Commission has raised a number of objections over the procedure, including non-availability of the feasibility for the project, even that it was not carried out, beside other objections.
"Whether the bids to acquire used aircraft were invited; was competitive climate ensured and Airbus offer was received or not", were among objections raised by the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission also questioned that whether the Engineering Department of the PIA had evaluated other options, or confirmed to new Boeing 777 vs the used ones. It may be mentioned here that PIA operates a range of advanced aircraft, ranging from the world's preferred Boeing 777 airplanes to the super-quiet Airbus A-310.
According to details of the Boeing 777 aircraft, the Boeing 777 family comprises of long-range, wide-body twin-engine airplanes. PIA was the first airline in the world to operate all the three variants of the 777 family including 777-200LR, 777-200ER and 777-300ER. All of them are appreciated by PIA's travellers.
PIA also holds the privilege of being the launch customer for 777-200LR, one of PIA's aircraft holds the record for the longest commercial jet flight in aviation history.
At present, PIA is serving destinations in USA, Canada, UK and Europe through its 777 fleet. PIA also has the Boeing 747, often referred to as 'Jumbo Jet', which is among the world's most iconic and recognisable jet airplanes. This 4-engine, long haul, wide-body airplane has a two-deck configuration.
PIA operates two variants of 747 family, which include 747-300 and 747-200 Combi. At present, due to its capacity, 747-300 fleet is mostly deployed to cater high-density requirements like carrying intending pilgrims to and from Saudi Arabia.
The Airbus A310 is a medium to long range wide-body airplane, providing a spacious interior to its travellers. PIA has deployed the A310-300 fleet on Far East, regional as well as domestic routes. The PIA is also using Boeing 737 and ATR42 currently.