ICAO Barred Pakistan From Issuing New Pilot Licenses

Pakistan civil aviation authority exhorted to carry out prompt corrective actions and also to adjourn the issuance of new pilot licenses after the scandal regarding PIA pilots forging licenses by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

ICAO suggested this after a scandal came into attention about 50 pilots whose credentials in securing pilot licenses were forged. In this case, five civil aviation officials were also involved, who allegedly helped the pilots in this process.

ICAO also showed concerns regarding safety measures and regulation infringements. The UN agency, while instructing CAA to halt new license issuance, also demanded an explanation till the 29th of September from Pakistan’s aviation authority. ICAO also told CAA to review the previously issued licenses.

Furthermore, if Pakistan aviation authority is unable to give a satisfactory response, ICAO is going to impose ‘Significant Safety Concern (SSC)’, said sources.

ICAO is an organization working under the United Nations. It works to ensure safety in international air transport.

“Pakistan should improve and strengthen its licensing system to ensure that it takes into account all necessary processes and procedures and prevents inconsistencies and malpractices before new licenses are issued and privileges of suspended licenses are re-established,” said ICAO according to Reuters.

This pilot scandal has deeply hurt the brand name and reputation of Pakistan international airlines, which has led to its ban in flying to Europe and the USA.

Read more: EU Flights Suspension Leads PIA To Face Rs280 mn Loss

PCAA has since then revoked 50 pilot’s licenses and in addition, also suspended 32 other pilots for a whole year.