LAHORE: Pakistan International Airline’s (PIA) maiden flight from Lahore to Sydney has been deferred for a few days on the advice of the Australian Homeland Affairs Department, a statement from the flag carrier said Thursday, April 21.
Citing the reason for the deferment, the flag carrier, in a statement, said the Homeland Affairs Department wants to reassess the prevailing security situation of the country and review the security apparatus and procedures adopted at Pakistani airports.
PIA was set to operate its first-ever direct flight between Pakistan and Australia on April 22, initially planning to operate one weekly flight on this route.
PIA said the flight was initiated after a “strong demand” from the Pakistani diaspora residing in Australia, who wanted direct flights as they were forced to take a 35-hour long journey via transiting at Middle Eastern points.
But with the direct flight, the duration would be cut down from 35 hours to just 12.5 hours, the flag carrier’s statement said.
However, despite obtaining necessary permissions from the Australian Civil Aviation Authority at the last moment, the move was hit with delays.
The Department of Homeland Affairs of Australia, consequent to the detailed assessment of the security protocols adopted at Karachi and Lahore Airports, sought more time and has advised PIA to cancel its first two flights, till the time their review is complete.
The PIA spokesperson termed the event “unfortunate” but noted that given the carrier’s desires for long-term sustainable operations in Australia, the airline would comply with all the regulations and security reviews.
Pakistani High Commission in Australia is in constant contact with the authorities concerned for an amicable and expeditious resolution of the matter and has made themselves available for any assistance in this regard, the spokesperson said.
