A Special Committee on the performance of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) was told that the Prime Minister wants revival of PIA and not its privatisation. While answering a question raised by Senator Muhammad Usman Khan Kakar regarding privatisation of PIA, Senator Mushahid Ullah Khan categorically said that PM wants to bring a 'revolution' in PIA by increasing the number of aeroplanes in its fleet. Currently, there are 38 aircraft; previously their number was 16. He said 2 more big aircraft will be included in the fleet soon.
He said it is a dream of Prime Minister to revive PIA that's why the national carrier is coming up with new plans of revival in next year. Now automatic seat cancellation can be made in last 4 hours instead of 24 hours, which will reduce cancellation charges causing a loss to PIA. The Chairman Committee also directed PIA authorities to take time and prepare a comprehensive brief highlighting main issues and also sought a briefing from Chief Financial Officer (CFO), a representation of Customer Services, and marketing department to discuss the problems being faced by passengers.
Senator Dr Jehanzeb Jamaldini asked PIA to prepare a value-chain analysis which will help highlight the issues and get inter-departmental review reports as to ascertain which department is doing what. Senator General Abdul Qayuum (Retd) asked PIA authorities to bring forward manpower issues, technical issues, role of union, marketing and landing right along with implication of the ordinance 2015.
Chairman Committee also focused on constitutional protection of employees. He said legal benefit rights must be considered in case of any employee being laid off whether it is on the basis of golden handshake or inefficiency. During the meeting, Chairman Mushahidullah also talked about the effectiveness of this special committee and its role in the revival of PIA. He said the report comprising issues faced by PIA followed by suggestions and recommendations will be submitted in parliament where a decision regarding its implementation will be carried forward by the government.
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