Abysmal standards

This letter refers to the editorial ‘PIA affairs’ (Jan 23, 2020). While PIA’s bloated work force is a problem, the more critical issue is the extremely poor quality of its staff and employees. Politically based inductions and the quota system have eroded the once exemplary employee standards at PIA. The senior level management positions, in particular, are in many cases manned by those with no background in the aviation business. If the fortunes of the PIA are to change an overhaul of its employee standards is inescapable but this is a political decision that has to be taken by the government.

The responsibility for this mess falls largely on the Aviation Division headed by the federal secretary aviation. Since this secretary is appointed by the PM, he too shares in the blame. One marvels at his callousness in abandoning the role of oversight of important state matters.

Arif Majeed

Karachi