Islamabad ( The COW News Digital)Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the temporary suspension of its flight operations to Canada for the remainder of the month, citing mandatory maintenance of its long-haul aircraft.
According to a spokesperson for the national carrier, the decision was taken to undergo crucial technical inspections and maintenance of its two Boeing 777 long-range aircraft that are used specifically for nonstop flights across the Pacific.
“These aircraft have the capability to fly for 17 hours nonstop,” the spokesperson explained, adding that both planes will be taken out of service for approximately three weeks to complete a scheduled technical overhaul and replacement of critical parts — a procedure that is mandated every 10 years.
PIA said the maintenance work is necessary to ensure safety, efficiency, and uninterrupted services during the coming months, which are expected to see a surge in passenger traffic. “We want our fleet to be fully prepared before the upcoming busy travel season,” the spokesperson stated.
The airline acknowledged the inconvenience this decision may cause to passengers and apologized for the disruption. “Passenger safety and aircraft fitness are our top priorities,” the statement added.
Travelers with existing bookings to Canada have been advised to contact PIA’s call centers or ticketing offices for rebooking options or refunds. The airline is also working on rescheduling flights where possible once the maintenance period is over.
Aviation experts have noted that PIA’s decision to suspend operations temporarily reflects a focus on long-term safety compliance rather than short-term revenue loss. Regular maintenance checks, especially on long-haul aircraft, are considered crucial in the aviation industry to ensure airworthiness and passenger security.
PIA has faced operational challenges in recent years, including financial strain and fleet modernization needs, but officials say the airline is committed to improving service quality and reliability.
Once the maintenance work is completed, normal flight operations to Canada are expected to resume smoothly, giving passengers confidence in the safety and performance of the airline’s long-haul fleet.
