Senate body on Defence reviews key aviation sector’s legislation, operational matters

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd Jun, 2026) The Senate Standing Committee on Defence met here Wednesday with Senator Talha Mahmood in the Chair and reviewed key issues related to the national aviation sector.

The comprehensive agenda included a detailed review of proposed legislation for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), inquiries into domestic airfare structures, and strategic updates on regional flight operations.

A Primary focus of the session was the detailed consideration of a proposed legislative amendment, identifiable, seeking to repeal the Pakistan International Airlines Corporation (Conversion) Act, 2016.

The committee was briefed that only section 7(a) of the original act would be retained.

The Senators expressed reservations regarding the completeness of the proposed repeal ordinance, highlighting the need for a comprehensive valid legal framework, reveal deep concern about the potential negative impact on existing employees, with members insisting that any new legislation must provide concrete guarantees to protect their rights and jobs.

The committee firmly directed that all relevant documents must be submitted for thorough review in the next meeting, explicitly stating that authorities must not rush the passage of this bill.

The committee re-affirmed its commitment to supporting government reforms but made clear that employee welfare remains the absolute top priority.

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Further demonstrating its focus on enhancing accessibility and competition, the committee received a briefing from South Air regarding a new feasibility plan. Meeting records shows that this private airline has entered into a mutual understanding with the government to commence flights in the southern regions of Pakistan, including flights to Gilgit and from Chitral.

The committee welcomed this development, emphasizing that increased competition among multiple companies will promote a more business-friendly environment in Pakistan.

Members specifically directed Aviation Authorities to focus on small airport facilities to ensure they are equipped for new operations, and also requested the formal agreement with SPSA and the Government/Privatization Commission to be presented at the next meeting.

The committee addressed the vital issue of domestic airfare, specifically a point of public importance regarding high prices for flights to Quetta. Detailed responses from PIA, outlined the airline’s utilization of dynamic pricing and segmentation strategies. PIA reported that for July 2025, Quetta-bound fares started at PKR 19,700 and peaked at PKR 53,095, including taxes, with a significant number of seats available at lower fare levels and an average fare of PKR 24,520.

The meeting was attended by Senators Farooq Hamid Naek, Saleem Mandviwala, Umer Farooq and Secretary M/o Defence along with other senior officials.