Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is making a strong comeback after years of setbacks. Following the resumption of its historic Paris flight after a four-year ban, the airline is now setting its sights on expanding operations to the United Kingdom.

With direct flights to Manchester and London. As part of its revival efforts, PIA is also addressing staffing shortages by hiring engineers and technicians on a daily wage basis amid ongoing privatization challenges.

Wave of Resignations Hits PIA

PIA has been facing a significant exodus of skilled personnel, with 110 engineers and technicians recently resigning. Among them, 65 technicians and 45 aircraft engineers have left the airline to join domestic and international carriers. This wave of departures comes at a critical time when the airline is striving to regain its position in global aviation.

Hiring on a Contractual Basis

In response to the workforce depletion, pia has decided to recruit engineers and technicians on a daily wage basis. The administration has already initiated interviews for new hires, focusing on filling the gap left by the recent resignations.

However, sources indicate that while technicians are being recruited, the decision to hire new aircraft engineers is still pending. Notably, the last batch of aircraft engineers was recruited in 2016, underscoring the urgent need for fresh talent.

UK Expansion and Regulatory Confidence

pia airline operational expansion comes with renewed confidence from international regulatory bodies. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has granted an exemption from a security audit, signaling trust in Pakistan’s aviation standards. This development paves the way for the airline’s planned direct flights to Manchester and London, marking another step in its recovery journey.

Privatization Efforts and Industry Trends

The government’s ongoing privatization efforts have influenced PIA’s internal restructuring, leading to workforce instability. Many departing engineers and technicians have sought better opportunities in other airlines, reflecting a broader trend in the aviation industry where skilled personnel are in high demand.

The airline’s move to hire on a daily wage basis indicates an attempt to maintain operational continuity while navigating privatization challenges.