Summary:
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has dismissed the president and secretary general of its aircraft engineers’ body, Abdullah Jadoon and Awais Jadoon, amidst an escalating dispute. The expulsions followed their failure to attend scheduled hearings and are linked to ongoing protests over work conditions, safety concerns, and alleged maintenance standard violations. The dismissals have intensified the conflict, with the engineers vowing legal action and PIA asserting the illegality of the protests under essential services laws.
PIA Dismisses Key Aircraft Engineers Amid Ongoing Dispute
PIA dismisses the president and secretary general of the Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP), Abdullah Jadoon and Awais Jadoon, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the national carrier’s administration and its engineering staff. This action, confirmed by an official notification, follows a period of heightened tensions that have disrupted flight operations across the country.
The dismissals were confirmed after Jadoon and Jadoon reportedly failed to appear for personal hearings before the airline’s CEO on November 4 and 5. PIA stated that this decision was made under the airline’s relevant regulations, following inquiries initiated last year. Multiple opportunities were provided for the officials to present their case.
Background to the PIA Dismissals
The move by PIA dismisses the two leaders comes amid protracted protests by engineers over alleged work conditions and critical safety-related grievances. SindhNews.com reported that engineers have been wearing black armbands for over two months, signaling their discontent, yet formal dialogue had not been initiated by management. Issues cited include an eight-year freeze on raises and a severe shortage of spare parts, leading to alleged pressure on engineers to certify aircraft despite technical faults.
Awais Jadoon, the now-dismissed SAEP secretary general, asserted that the expulsions are directly linked to the engineers’ insistence on highlighting safety concerns and their refusal to clear aircraft with technical issues. He stated, “We will challenge these decisions in court based on existing documents,” emphasizing their commitment to aviation safety standards.
The engineers’ protests have significantly impacted operations, leading to delays for dozens of flights in Karachi and grounding several aircraft as engineers withheld safety clearances. This forced the airline to arrange alternative maintenance solutions, stranding passengers at major airports. The SAEP had previously stated members would not return to work unless the CEO reviewed his stance and opened negotiations.
Airline’s Stance on the PIA Dismissals
Conversely, the national airline’s CEO has ordered strict action against any individual disrupting operations, warning of disciplinary measures. A PIA spokesperson claimed the engineers’ body lacks legal standing and described the movement as an attempt to “sabotage the airline’s privatisation.” The spokesperson refuted “safety issue” claims, labeling the walkout a deliberate tactic to disrupt operations and pressure the administration.
The airline highlighted that the Pakistan Essential Services (Maintenance) Act, 1952, remains in force, making strikes or walkouts illegal. Therefore, those participating in or supporting such actions face legal consequences.
The dismissals underscore a deeper struggle between management and its engineering personnel. The outcome of this dispute, whether resolved through legal challenges or renewed negotiations, will significantly impact PIA’s operational stability and its ongoing privatization efforts.