Aerospace

Indigo flight grounded at Patna Airport after bomb threat, passenger arrested

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An Indigo flight (6e 2126) with a destination of Delhi was reportedly stopped at Patna Airport after a passenger reported having a bomb in his bag. After the information was given and the aircraft was fully inspected, the passengers were safely deboarded at the Patna airport. For inspection, all luggage were taken off the aircraft.

The authorities have made the decision to cancel the flight this evening as a precaution (Thursday night). In response, the Patna police dispatched numerous bomb squad and dog squad units. They were searching the entire airport premises till the time of reporting. Following a man’s alleged claim that he had a bomb in his bag while travelling to Delhi on an aircraft, the Bomb squad and police officers are reportedly conducting an inspection.

A bomb squad and police personnel checked the aircraft and declared it safe. The man’s bag was also checked and no bomb was found, following which he was arrested, ANI reported.

Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

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The suspension of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from operating in Europe is finally over, marking a significant turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

After years of scrutiny and stringent safety assessments, the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have officially lifted the ban on PIA. This decision also grants Airblue authorization to operate flights to Europe, further enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.

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PIA’s suspension, initially imposed in June 2020, was a direct consequence of concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These concerns were triggered shortly after a tragic PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives, prompting an investigation into the validity of pilot licenses issued in the country.

Now, after four years of continuous efforts and reforms by the PCAA, EASA has expressed renewed confidence in Pakistan’s aviation regulatory framework. In a statement, EASA highlighted that Pakistan has successfully addressed safety compliance issues, enabling PIA to resume its operations within the European Union.

A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines. “This milestone has been achieved after four years of relentless efforts by the PIA management,” the spokesperson said.

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The lifting of the ban is expected to have a profound impact on PIA’s future. The airline, which employs over 7,000 people, has faced criticism in the past for poor management, financial instability, and regulatory challenges.

However, the restoration of European operations is seen as a vital step toward regaining its competitive edge, improving its financial standing, and restoring its reputation on the global stage.

Pakistan’s government, which has been exploring options to privatize the debt-laden national carrier, is hopeful that this development will attract foreign investment and bolster the country’s aviation industry.

With a renewed focus on compliance and safety, PIA is now poised to rebuild its presence in Europe, offering Pakistani travelers and international passengers more connectivity and improved service.