Safety Assessment of Foreign Aircraft (SAFA) inspection index for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has risen to critical level; it was learnt. According to sources, the recent SAFA inspections revealed that PIA SAFA index has risen to a critical level. As SAFA rung the alarm bell through its index, the PIA management has then released a circular FLT OPS/DFO/10 issued on October 4, 2017, directing for strict adherence to standard procedures and company policies in order to help avoiding findings during SAFA inspections, sources said.
"All pilots are, therefore, advised to pay close attention to personal and onboard document validity on all flights. In addition, ''NO SMOKING'' policy must be adhered to at all times," stated the circular. The management warned that personal lapses leading to SAFA findings shall entail strict administrative action. "Your cooperation and professionalism in this regard shall help our airline to arrest the rising SAFA index," appealed the management.
Sources said the national airline is already witnessing low profitability and now this kind of issues would further destroy its image and could result in practical problems for the national flag carrier.
Replying to a question, sources said that as per record the SAFA inspections mostly object to overall maintenance conditions and flight related documents; adding that the SAFA inspection of PK-284 by UAE''s General Civil Aviation Authority found out that one of the flash lights was not working while Captain EFB in PAD expired since its last update was September 15.
Furthermore, sources said that Airway manual and ALT charts were outdated; while the crew was found unaware of some technical information. The inspection found that baby basinet was incorrectly stowed behind the last aft row on left side. In addition, there were issues with the toilet and at water service panel; one of two latches was open after arrival, sources said and added that that the cargo forward net was not secured hence the baggage was scattered.
The inspection also revealed that de-lamination was found on both sliding windows and bubbles were found on both primary windshields while no evidence of monitoring was witnessed.
Sources advised the management to set things right on a war footing basis.
When contacted, PIA spokesman said that airline''s ratings were presently over the mark. He admitted that SAFA had given its initial observations, which would be responded by the airline soon in order to clarify its position. He termed it as routine matter because it was initial findings and added that final report, which would be compiled after evaluation of airline''s response, would rate the national flag carrier.
Commenting on the PIA management letter, directing for strict adherence to standard procedures and company policies to avoid findings during SAFA inspections, PIA spokesman said that airline issued such letters on a fortnightly basis to put pressure on concerned departments in order to ensure safety standards.