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PIA Set to Resume Flights to Europe: A Major Step for Privatisation

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Minister for Privatisation Abdul Aleem Khan announced on Sunday that the launch of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to Europe is a significant milestone in the airline’s privatisation efforts. Speaking to the media in Islamabad, Khan expressed optimism about the resumption of PIA flights to the US and the UK, which he believes will enhance the national carrier’s reputation.

Khan noted that many of the obstacles hindering PIA’s privatisation have been addressed, and remaining issues will soon be resolved.

Starting January 10, 2025, PIA will operate twice-weekly flights between Islamabad and Paris after a ban lasting over four years. This development comes following the European Union’s decision to lift restrictions on the airline.

PIA spokesman Abdullah Hafeez confirmed that flights will be scheduled for Tuesdays and Fridays using Boeing 777 aircraft, with ticket bookings opening on December 7, 2024.

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While the Islamabad-Paris route is set to resume, the timeline for re-establishing the Lahore-Paris service remains uncertain. This return to European airspace is vital for PIA, which had its operations suspended in June 2020 due to concerns over compliance with international aviation standards by Pakistani authorities and its Civil Aviation Authority.

Additionally, Khan mentioned that the IMF has agreed to key conditions for potential PIA buyers, including the elimination of an 18% sales tax on new aircraft purchases and the transfer of PIA’s losses to a Holding Company.

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