Karachi, November 6, 2025: The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) on Thursday dismissed Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP) President Abdullah Jadoon and Secretary General Awais Jadoon from service amid a prolonged standoff between the national flag carrier and its engineers’ association.
According to official dismissal notices, Abdullah, serving as Aircraft Engineer (PG-VI), and Awais, Aircraft Engineer (PG-VIII), were terminated for “unauthorised disclosure” of official and operational information and for conducting a press conference without prior approval.
“In order to enquire into the allegations/charges communicated to you via the aforesaid showcause notice, an enquiry was conducted wherein you failed to participate despite being given ample opportunities to appear and defend your case,” the letters stated.
The notices added that the enquiry committee found both engineers guilty of misconduct and that they were twice offered a chance to appear before the CEO, but failed to do so. “Keeping in view your entire disciplinary case, the management has decided to dismiss you from the service of Pakistan International Airlines Corporation Limited with immediate effect,” they said.
The dismissals come against the backdrop of an ongoing two-and-a-half-month-long protest by aircraft engineers demanding pay raises and improved service conditions. The dispute has led to disruptions in flight operations as engineers refused to issue clearance certificates for aircraft they deemed not fully airworthy.
While the PIA management has described the situation as an “illegal strike” in violation of the Essential Services Act, the SAEP insists its members are performing duties but “cannot compromise on safety.”
“We are being pressured to issue clearance certificates, but passenger safety comes first,” said Awais Jadoon earlier this week, rejecting claims of a strike.
The airline has accused the protesting engineers of sabotaging the privatisation process of the national carrier, while engineers argue that management has failed to address their long-standing demands.
The crisis escalated earlier this week when hundreds of passengers were stranded at major airports, with at least six flights delayed on Monday night due to lack of technical clearances.
PIA later claimed to have restored operations through alternative arrangements, saying its technical teams “worked overnight” to minimise disruptions. A spokesperson said on Wednesday that flight operations had been partially restored, though minor delays continued across major airports.
