Airlines

Air India Dismisses Pilot Caught Drunk After Operating International Flight

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Air India has taken decisive action, terminating the employment of a pilot who was found intoxicated after piloting an international flight from Phuket to India.

The incident, which occurred on a flight bound for Delhi, underscores the airline’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism. Following the flight’s arrival in India, the pilot underwent a breathalyzer test, revealing a positive result for alcohol consumption. This violation of Air India’s strict zero-tolerance policy regarding alcohol consumption by flight crew, particularly during flight operations, prompted immediate disciplinary action.

Reports from TOI, the airline disclosed that in addition to the pilot’s dismissal, Air India is contemplating filing a First Information Report (FIR) due to the gravity of the situation. Flying under the influence of alcohol is not only a breach of airline regulations but also constitutes a criminal offense, as per aviation laws.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been apprised of the incident, highlighting the seriousness with which regulatory authorities view such infractions. The safety and well-being of passengers and crew are paramount concerns for Air India and the broader aviation industry.

Unlike domestic flights within India, where alcohol is not served or available, international flights often offer alcoholic beverages to passengers. Consequently, post-flight breathalyzer tests for flight crew serve as a crucial measure to uphold safety standards.

Penalties for failing these tests are severe, ranging from license suspensions to permanent revocation for repeat offenders. The pilot involved in this incident was reportedly undergoing a training flight with a newly-appointed captain, adding another layer of concern to the situation. Air India’s swift and decisive action in dismissing the intoxicated pilot underscores its firm stance against jeopardizing the safety of its passengers and crew.

Airlines

PIA Reinstates Manchester and Paris Routes After EU Ban Lift

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to resume flights to Europe starting in January, beginning with Paris as its first destination.

The decision follows the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) removal of a long-standing ban on the airline. PIA’s inaugural flight to Paris is scheduled for January 10, with bookings opening on December 9.

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In an official statement, PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan confirmed that the first flight schedule has been approved, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s recovery efforts. The EU ban had previously cost PIA approximately Rs40 billion ($144 million) annually in lost revenue, compounding its financial struggles.

With European operations restarting, PIA is now setting its sights on the United Kingdom. The airline plans to seek approval from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to resume flights to major British cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

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These routes are anticipated to see high demand once necessary clearances are obtained. The lifting of the EU ban represents a key achievement for PIA as it works to rebuild its international network and regain its standing in the global aviation market.

By restoring flights to Europe and aiming for UK destinations, PIA is taking critical steps toward recovering lost ground and improving its financial outlook.