The International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) has expressed concern over a tragic accident involving a cabin crew member of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) that resulted in her death. In a letter to the Director General of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), the ITF called for an investigation into PIA’s flight services management.
The ITF, a global union federation representing nearly 18.5 million transport workers from over 150 countries, including Pakistan, stated, “Suspected violations of PIA’s Safety & Emergency Procedures (SEP) manual and flight and duty time limitations have been raised by our affiliate, the Pakistan Airlines Cabin Crew Association (PACCA). These issues are crucial for ensuring the operational safety of Pakistan’s national carrier.”
PACCA had earlier highlighted concerns about the violation of rules and regulations outlined in the SEP manual of Cabin Crew, which is approved by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority. It specifically mentioned that the surface travel from Lahore to Sialkot during nighttime, while in uniform, was a breach of the manual.
The ITF has called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the accident and the overall safety culture at PIA. It also urged the aviation authority to address the concerns and demands of the PACCA and other aviation trade unions regarding working conditions, health, and safety. The ITF believes that fostering a harmonious work environment and improving safety measures is vital for the long-term prospects of PIA and Pakistan’s aviation industry as a whole.