KARACHI – Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Chief Executive Officer(CEO), Air Marshal Arshad Malik Wednesday requested a delegation of theUnited States (U.S.) for facilitating PIA to have direct flights to theU.S.cities including New York, Chicago, Houston and others as flying to theU.S. via any en-route transit maked the flight economics unviable.
Talking to the U.S. delegation led by Consulate General of the UnitedStates of America JoAnne Wagner, which was on visit to PIA head office,Arshad Malik said that presently security situation in the country hadimproved tremendously and relevant aviation and security agencies offoreign countries of Europe and Canada had shown their confidenceover the recent developments, according to a press release.
He also briefed the delegation about PIA’s plan to expand itsfleet by acquisition of new aircraft.
PIA CEO apprised the U.S. delegation about getting certificationand approvals from IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) and otheragencies.
Air Marshal Arshad Malik said that with opening of New IslamabadInternational Airport the security concerns had been tackled at alllevels. Resumption of British Airways and other western carriers wasproof of it.
Responding to a question, he said that in the forthcoming NationalAviation Policy he expected a level playing field for all stakeholders.
JoAnne Wagner assured to help in facilitating by contacting the relevantthe U.S. departments in resolving PIA issues including having direct accessto the U.S. main land.
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“We are optimistic about relations to grow in the future between bothcountries,” said the U.S. Consulate General. She said that USA was verykeen to improve and strengthen the ties between the two countriesespecially the business and trade relations.
She said that significant potential existed between both the countriesto grow.
Wagner took deep interest in the performance of PIA and asked questionsabout airline’s future plans.
While appreciating the PIA’s performance under the new management, sheassured of the follow up in facilitation to PIA.
JoAnne Wagner on the occasion was accompanied by senior officials ofdiplomatic corp of the U.S. Consulate.
