ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Defence, led by Senator Talha Mahmood, convened at Parliament House on Monday to address pivotal issues concerning Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), aviation safety, and airfare regulation. The committee unanimously approved the “Pakistan International Airlines Corporation (Conversion) (Repeal) Bill, 2026,” which aims to facilitate PIA’s privatization while preserving its brand identity.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the committee discussed the legal framework and prerequisites for the privatization process, with input from Federal Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar and other officials. Discussions also covered aviation safety and operational oversight, particularly concerning proposed wet lease operations involving foreign aircraft and pilots. Concerns were raised about the safety and regulatory oversight of these operations, especially for challenging routes in northern Pakistan.

Defence Ministry officials highlighted the difficulties of operating flights to regions like Gilgit and Chitral, emphasizing the need for local expertise. The Secretary Defence noted the risks associated with foreign-operated aircraft due to limited local oversight. Chairman Mahmood underscored the importance of reliable air connectivity to these regions, given the lengthy alternative of road travel.

The committee also examined the potential for domestic and foreign investment in the aviation sector, with some members advocating for facilitating such investments to boost connectivity and competition. The Air Vice Marshal advisor to South Air defended the safety of proposed wet lease operations, asserting compliance with international standards.

Concerns over inflated airfares on routes to Quetta and the need for effective fare regulation were also addressed. The committee stressed the importance of competition and regulatory mechanisms to ensure affordable travel for passengers, particularly in underserved regions.

The meeting, attended by various senators and senior officials, concluded with directives to facilitate operational approvals for certain routes while ensuring specific training for pilots on northern routes.