Dubai flight delayed by 9 hours as Pakistan airline’s operations halt temporarily

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) experienced significant operational disruptions on Monday night, leading to widespread flight delays and cancellations. The disruption was triggered by the Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP), a derecognized entity, which refused to issue aircraft clearances, citing safety concerns. Among the affected flights was a Dubai-bound service from Islamabad, delayed by nine hours. PIA’s management swiftly responded, working overnight to restore operations and mitigate the impact on passengers. The airline confirmed that seven flights across major cities, including Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, and Sialkot, faced delays ranging from four to 14 hours, while five flights were canceled. PIA emphasized its commitment to restoring full operations and prioritizing customer convenience. The incident highlights ongoing tensions within the airline as it navigates challenges, including privatization efforts.