PIA cancels more than 25 flights amidst fuel issues 

In response to a severe fuel crisis, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) took the decision to cancel more than 25 flights on Monday, encompassing both domestic and international routes. 

Among the affected routes were seven flights originating from Karachi, bound for Lahore, Rahim Yar Khan, and Peshawar. 

Additionally, six flights from Karachi to Multan, Dubai, and Islamabad, as well as four flights from Islamabad to Dubai, Dammam, Medina, and Jeddah, faced cancellations.

PIA’s spokesperson revealed that this measure was necessitated by a limited fuel supply from Pakistan State Oil (PSO). 

According to ARY News, the airline has strategically prioritised its profitable routes amid fuel supply challenges. Notably, PSO resumed a restricted fuel supply to PIA after the assurance of a daily payment of Rs100 million to clear the pending dues.

Amidst these developments, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar issued directives to accelerate the privatisation process of PIA and other financially struggling state-owned enterprises.

Insider sources revealed that the financial management of the national airline would be transferred to the Privatisation Commission. 

This move aims to implement measures to curb losses and enhance the airline’s financial stability. The commission plans to integrate PIA’s financial operations with an updated system, ultimately improving its balance sheet and facilitating the privatisation process. 

Meanwhile, PIA intends to operate 60 flights on Monday to minimise disruptions for passengers.