ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially appointed Nadir Shafi Dar as the new Director General (DG) of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), according to a government notification issued on Wednesday, as reported by Express News.
Nadir Shafi Dar, who had been acting as the interim DG, has now secured the position for a three-year term following a rigorous selection process. His appointment comes after interviews with 11 shortlisted candidates were conducted last month, where he emerged as the top choice for the role.
One of the significant challenges awaiting Dar is the restoration of flight operations for Pakistani airlines to the United Kingdom and Europe. These flights were suspended by British and European aviation authorities, and resolving this issue remains a key priority for the country’s aviation sector.
Nadir Shafi’s appointment comes at a critical time for Pakistan’s aviation industry, as the CAA continues its efforts to implement reforms and meet international aviation standards. During his three-year tenure, he will be tasked with addressing several pressing issues facing the sector.
The process to appoint the new DG began last month, with the Ministry of Aviation shortlisting 11 candidates for the role. These candidates, including Nadir Shafi Dar, underwent interviews chaired by the Minister of Aviation in late September. The selection process followed a public job advertisement by the aviation ministry, aimed at attracting qualified candidates for this important position.
Now confirmed as the permanent DG of the CAA, Nadir Shafi will play a crucial role in guiding Pakistan’s aviation sector through a period of challenges and reform, particularly in regaining international flight approvals.
