PIA Employees Dismissed for Smuggling Mobile Phones

Two employees of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), including an air hostess and a flight steward, were dismissed from their jobs after being found guilty of smuggling mobile phones from Canada to Pakistan. The dismissals followed a thorough investigation by PIA, demonstrating the airline’s zero-tolerance policy toward illegal activities.

According to a PIA spokesperson, customs authorities apprehended the female employee, a resident of Multan, upon her return from Toronto in October 2023. Officials recovered five mobile phones from her possession during a routine inspection. When questioned during the inquiry, she failed to provide a valid explanation for her actions.

In a separate case, a senior flight steward, residing in Lahore, carried five mobile phones upon his arrival at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore. An investigation was initiated, and the steward was issued a show-cause notice by the manager of administration and discipline. Following the inquiry, the authorities gave the accused the opportunity to defend himself via video link.

However, based on the evidence presented, the Chief Human Resource Officer terminated the steward’s employment with immediate effect. The authorities instructed him to surrender his PIA ID card, family card, and airport pass. The PIA spokesperson emphasized that the national carrier maintains a strict stance against any violations of law and expects employees to adhere to the highest standards of conduct.

These actions underscore PIA’s commitment to accountability and professionalism, especially as it strives to rebuild its reputation on both domestic and international fronts.

Stray Dog Sightings at Karachi Airport Raise Concerns

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA) has expressed concern over stray dog sightings in the landside area of Jinnah International Airport (JIAP), Karachi. A video capturing stray dogs wandering near the airport went viral on social media, drawing attention to the issue.

A PAA spokesperson clarified that specialized teams fully secure the airport’s airside with robust fencing and 24/7 monitoring, but the landside area presents unique challenges. The landside zone covers a vast area of 3,700 acres and densely populated neighborhoods with eateries and garbage pits surround it, attracting stray animals.

Despite regular cleaning efforts within the PAA’s jurisdiction, the problem persists due to the presence of waste and stray dogs in adjacent areas outside the authority’s control. The spokesperson assured that the airside, where main flight operations occur, remains completely secure and free from any intrusions.

To address the issue, the PAA has reached out to the Edhi Foundation for assistance in managing stray dogs. Additionally, the authority has written to local administration officials, urging them to enhance their efforts to keep stray animals away from airport premises.

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This incident highlights the broader need for improved waste management and community collaboration to ensure the safety and smooth operations of airport facilities. The PAA’s proactive measures reflect its commitment to maintaining a secure and efficient airport environment.

These two incidents, involving both employee misconduct and operational challenges, underscore the importance of discipline, accountability, and coordinated efforts in Pakistan’s aviation sector.