Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is in danger of grounding 15 aircraft due to unpaid dues totaling up to Rs 20 billion. The delay in clearing these dues, which include fuel costs, Federal Excise Duty, and lease payments, may result in over 30 flights being suspended. The Ministry of Aviation acknowledges that overhauling PIA is a complex process requiring a year, but it emphasizes the need to keep the national carrier operational. While the government has provided critical funds to ease PIA’s financial challenges, the airline’s request for a PKR 22.9 billion bailout was rejected, and it faces potential spare parts supply disruptions by Boeing and Airbus.
