The Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal said that revenue maximisation, cost rationalisation and growth-driven based on improved services and end to end envisioned business plan was needed for the revival of the Pakistan International Airline (PIA).
He expressed these views while chairing a meeting of a special committee formed by the ECC to bring structural reforms in the PIA and make it a profitable organisation.
”A clear and shared vision, strict adherence to merit, focus on human resource development, core functions, customer service and accountability are essential elements to make the PIA a world-class airline,” said minister.
The meeting was attended by minister privatisation commission Muhammad Zubair, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Revenue Haroon Akhtar and Chairman Board of Investment Miftah Ismail. The officials of Civil Aviation Authority have made a presentation before the committee.
Ahsan Iqbal maintained that it was a make or break opportunity for management to fix and turn around the airline otherwise it would be highly unfortunate if PIA becomes another white elephant. He said the government is determined to bring back the lost glory of the PIA and make it the airline of choice.
Ahsan Iqbal directed the new business plan that should include improvement in safety, food and entertainment. He directed that special attention should be paid to the loss-making routes and with the passage of time new fleet of aircraft would be added to offer world class quality services to the passengers.
The minister added that despite bearing strong foundations, the PIA has turned into a loss-making instrument because of poor management and political interference. He said that without a clear road map and solid business model, all efforts in this regard would stay futile. Accountability at all levels should be made mandatory and performance to be measured continuously. He stressed that customers can be brought back only if better quality of service, punctuality and reliability is ensured.
