This move signals a potential renewal of third-country operators’ licenses for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Vision Airlines       An aeroplane of the national flag carrier of Pakistan is seen in this image. — AFP/File

LAHORE: The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has taken a significant step towards reinstating Pakistani airlines’ operations in European countries by deciding to lift the ban.

Sources reveal that both the European Commission and EASA have forwarded the decision to the European Air Safety Committee for approval.

This move signals a potential renewal of third-country operators’ licenses for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Vision Airlines.

Scheduled from May 14 to 16, the upcoming meeting of the European Air Safety Committee, where the Pakistani delegation, led by the Secretary of Aviation, is set to depart for Brussels today, holds crucial importance.

While the ban on all other Pakistani airlines has been lifted, discussions during the meeting will primarily focus on PIA and Vision Air.

A spokesperson for the European Commission has been reported to have clarified that there is no ban on other Pakistani airlines in European countries. The ban, imposed in July 2020, disrupted air travel between Pakistan and Europe.

EASA licenses, issued by the European Union, carry weight not only within

EU member states but also in numerous other countries.

However, the spokesperson for PIA expressed unawareness of these recent developments but conveyed gratitude for the possibility of a favourable decision.

He emphasized the need to await the outcome of the European Air Safety Committee meeting.

Anticipation is high as the potential lifting of the ban promises restoration of normalcy in flight operations between Pakistan and European destinations.