FAA Review Could Pave the Way for PIA’s U.S. Flight Resumption

After a seven-year hiatus, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is on the brink of a major milestone—resuming direct flights to the United States.

This move comes after years of work to regain crucial certifications and a renewed push from the Pakistani government to address the airline’s challenges.

PIA’s return to the U.S. market hinges on an upcoming review by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which could lead to an upgrade of Pakistan’s aviation safety rating.

Currently, Pakistan holds a Category 2 rating, which prohibits airlines from operating direct flights to the U.S. However, if the FAA grants an upgrade to Category 1, it would signal that Pakistan’s aviation system meets the strict safety and regulatory standards required to resume these valuable routes.

A significant development in this process is the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Pakistani government and the FAA. This MoU includes key financial settlements that will facilitate the visit of an FAA delegation to Pakistan in February or March 2025, to reassess the country’s aviation safety.

Nadir Shafi Dar, a Directorate General of Civil Aviation (CAA) official, confirmed that the necessary financial agreements with the FAA are nearing completion, which will play a crucial role in the success of the FAA’s reassessment.

Moreover, Pakistan’s government is pushing ahead with the privatization of PIA, with plans to finalize agreements by December 31. This effort to privatize the airline could further strengthen the country’s bid for Category 1 status and improve the prospects of resuming flights to the U.S.