Pakistan International Airlines Apologizes for Controversial Advert
Background
Pakistan’s embattled national airline, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), has been banned from flying to the European Union, UK, and the US since June 2020. The ban was imposed after one of its Airbus A-320s plunged into a Karachi street, killing nearly 100 people, and allegations that nearly a third of its pilots’ licenses were fake or dubious.
Controversial Advert
To mark its return to Europe, PIA published an advert on social media featuring a plane flying towards the Eiffel Tower in Paris, with the caption "Paris, we’re coming today." The image sparked a heated reaction online, with many users drawing comparisons with the 2001 Al-Qaeda attacks on New York’s Twin Towers, which killed nearly 3,000 people.
Reactions and Apology
PIA spokesman Abdullah Khan apologized for the advert, stating that it was "blown out of proportion with connections and perceptions that were not intended." He acknowledged that the response had triggered some negative emotions and apologized for the inconvenience caused.
Inquiry Ordered
Finance minister Ishaq Dar ordered an inquiry into the advert, describing it as "stupid." Khan, however, highlighted the airline’s positive response to its return to Europe, with flights operating at more than 95% capacity.
History of Safety Concerns
PIA has a history of safety concerns, including a 2016 incident in which a plane burst into flames after one of its two turboprop engines failed during a flight, killing more than 40 people. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) lifted the ban in November, but the airline remains barred from flying in the UK and the US.
Conclusion
PIA’s recent advert controversy highlights the need for the airline to be more sensitive to global concerns and perceptions. While the airline has apologized and taken steps to address the issue, it remains to be seen whether this incident will have a lasting impact on its reputation.
FAQs
- What was the context behind PIA’s controversial advert?
The advert was intended to mark the airline’s return to Europe, but it sparked comparisons with the 2001 Al-Qaeda attacks on the Twin Towers. - How did the public react to the advert?
The public reacted negatively, with many drawing comparisons with the 2001 attacks and questioning the airline’s intentions. - Has PIA apologized for the advert?
Yes, the airline’s spokesman apologized for the advert, acknowledging that it was "blown out of proportion with connections and perceptions that were not intended." - Is PIA still banned from flying to certain destinations?
Yes, PIA remains barred from flying to the UK and the US, despite the lifting of the ban by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency in November.