Islamabad: The Standing Committee on Aviation, under the chairmanship of Nawabzada Iftikhar Ahmed Khan Babar, MNA, convened its second meeting today at the Parliament House, focusing on key issues such as the privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIAC), equipment upgrades, and infrastructure improvements.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan announcement issued on 08 July 2024, the committee was briefed on the near completion of the PIAC privatization process and discussed the operational challenges faced by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which currently manages 22 of the country’s 43 airports. It was highlighted that the CAA is operating with outdated second-generation equipment, contrasting sharply with third-generation technology used in developed countries.

The committee also emphasized the need for improving passenger services, including the quality of food and staff behavior, to enhance the overall travel experience. Additionally, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) revealed plans to install five new radars and three mobile radars under the World Bank-funded Hydromet Project, aimed at enhancing weather forecasting and disaster management capabilities.

Further concerns were raised about structural issues at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, where cracks in the aircraft parking area were noted. The CAA confirmed that repair work is underway. Issues surrounding the appointment of aero-medical staff and the licensing of pilots were also discussed, with calls for a detailed report on these matters to ensure compliance and safety in aviation operations.