By Eman Alam
ISLAMABAD: Parliamentary Secretary for Aviation Zeb Jaffar told the National Assembly (NA) on Monday that the government has taken firm and immediate steps to stabilise Pakistan’s aviation sector, strengthen passenger protection, and enforce strict compliance across private airlines.
She acknowledged that global, dollar-driven cost pressures had contributed to rising domestic fares but stressed that authorities were acting decisively to ensure no operator compromised public interest.
Responding to various questions during the Question Hour, including those raised by Naeema Kishwar Khan, Shahid Rahmani and Shehryar, she said the government fully understands the public’s concern over fare increases but emphasised that these were tied to global financial realities rather than domestic policy decisions.
“Aviation is a dollar-driven industry. When every key input is priced in foreign currency, upward pressure on fares becomes unavoidable,” she explained.
Zeb Jaffar told the House that immediate and strict action had been taken against a private operator responsible for severe service failures.
“The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority issued notices, imposed penalties and suspended the operator’s licence without delay,” she said.
She added that penalties for private airlines—earlier capped at Rs 500,000—were now being significantly enhanced through proposed amendments to ensure stricter compliance.
Answering another question from a member regarding the national carrier, she reaffirmed that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is a national asset, and its pilots are fully competent and professionally trained.
“PIA’s pilots are capable and committed professionals, and the institution continues to serve the country despite fleet and financial constraints,” she said.
She reiterated that enforcement measures, tighter oversight, and strengthened penalties were part of the government’s broader effort to improve service standards and protect passengers.
“No private operator will be allowed to ignore its obligations or compromise passenger rights,” she said.
