Exciting Update! Nonstop Flights from Pakistan to the UK Set to Resume Shortly.
A team comprising four members from the UK Department for Transport (UK-DfT) has concluded a security evaluation at Islamabad International Airport, expressing contentment with the existing security measures.
Previously, the UK, along with several other European Union nations, had halted flight operations of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) due to concerns regarding the validity of pilot licenses. This prompted a comprehensive scrutiny of aviation procedures and security protocols by the UK inspectors.
During their inspection, the UK-DfT team meticulously assessed various facets of airport operations, including passenger handling processes, crew protocols, baggage delivery systems, vehicle screening methods, and overall security arrangements for aircraft and cargo.
Officials from the Airport Security Force (ASF) provided detailed briefings to the British team, elucidating the security protocols at the airport, with particular emphasis on the supplementary security measures implemented for direct flights to the UK. These measures constitute an ongoing endeavor to ensure that UK-bound flights adhere to the highest security standards.
An ASF spokesperson stated, “The UK team scrutinized the additional security protocols we have in place for direct UK flights, as well as our general airport security practices. Their inspection was meticulous, and they commended us on the proactive steps taken to bolster safety and security.”
The UK inspectors were impressed by the thoroughness and efficacy of the security procedures, affirming that the measures implemented by the ASF at Islamabad International Airport met their rigorous standards.
Having concluded their extensive review, the UK-DfT team departed Islamabad and returned to the UK. They will compile a comprehensive report detailing their findings, which will be submitted to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) within three weeks.
The positive assessment from the UK-DfT team marks a significant stride towards restoring confidence in Pakistan’s aviation security, with hopes for the resumption of PIA flight operations to the UK and other EU countries.
This evaluation forms part of the ongoing efforts to enhance aviation security standards in Pakistan, ensuring passenger safety and compliance with international regulations. The ASF and other pertinent authorities remain committed to upholding these high standards and implementing any necessary enhancements based on the recommendations from the final report of the UK-DfT.
