Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) experienced temporary disruptions in its flight operations late on Monday night, leading to widespread delays across several domestic and international routes including key services to the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
According to a company statement, the issue stemmed from an attempt by a derecognised entity, SEAP, to pressure management amid PIA’s ongoing privatisation process. The airline said its management and Engineering Department acted swiftly to stabilise operations and minimise inconvenience to passengers.
Among the affected flights, PK233 from Islamabad to Dubai faced a significant nine-hour delay, impacting 162 passengers. Despite the setback, PIA said contingency measures were implemented overnight to ensure the continuation of services across its network.
“Alternative measures were immediately put in place, and operations were restored overnight, minimising the impact on passengers and subsequent flight schedules,” PIA confirmed in a statement.
Flights Operating on Schedule
- PK783 (Karachi–Toronto): 104 passengers
- PK701 (Islamabad–Manchester): 329 passengers
Flights with Major Delays
- PK747 (Lahore–Medinah): 14-hour delay, 316 passengers
- PK761 (Karachi–Jeddah): 12-hour delay, 160 passengers
- PK300 (Karachi–Islamabad): 4-hour delay, 139 passengers
- PK741 (Islamabad–Medinah): 6-hour delay, 305 passengers
- PK233 (Islamabad–Dubai): 9-hour delay, 162 passengers
- PK245 (Islamabad–Dammam): 7-hour delay, 180 passengers
- PK755 (Sialkot–Riyadh): 7-hour delay, 142 passengers
In addition, five flights were cancelled due to load adjustments, with alternative arrangements offered to affected travellers, the airline said.
PIA emphasised that revised flight slots and crew scheduling were swiftly introduced to maintain service continuity and reduce further disruptions.
“This swift response underscores PIA’s commitment to operational stability and passenger convenience, even under challenging circumstances,” the airline added.
The carrier confirmed that normal flight operations are being progressively restored, reaffirming its commitment to safety, reliability, and customer service as it continues to navigate its privatisation phase.
