FCCI to sensitize departments for operation of big planes from Faisalabad

FAISALABAD: The Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI) has committed to raising awareness among relevant departments about initiating operations for larger aircraft at Faisalabad International Airport. The FCCI also plans to hold monthly coordination meetings to address issues faced by air travelers from Faisalabad.

Addressing a meeting of the FCCI Standing Committee on International Tourism, Rehan Naseem Bharara, President of FCCI, emphasized the historical excellence of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and its role as one of the pioneering airlines globally. He highlighted the need for collaboration between PIA and FCCI to revive the national flag carrier’s former prestige.

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Bharara praised former FCCI President Mian Javed Iqbal for his instrumental role in launching direct international flights from Faisalabad. He stressed the importance of punctuality in flight operations and urged that flight schedules for Faisalabad be set in consultation with the business community to ensure convenience and efficiency.

Shahid Hussain, District Manager PIA, shared updates on PIA’s current operations, which include 17 planes serving domestic routes and international destinations such as Jeddah, Medina, Dubai, and Muscat. He noted that during a time when Faisalabad had two daily flights to Karachi, 70% of international passengers used this route. However, he acknowledged that advancements in mobile technology have reduced the need for frequent travel, as virtual meetings via platforms like Zoom have become more prevalent.

Nadeem Iqbal, Convener of the Standing Committee, welcomed attendees and highlighted that the three weekly flights currently operational from Faisalabad are achieving satisfactory passenger loads. He appreciated the ongoing cooperation between PIA and FCCI, urging that this partnership continue to support and further facilitate the business community.

The meeting was attended by several notable participants, including Irfan Mehmood, Sajid Maqbool, Shahid Habib, M. Shahid, Muhammad Jameel Kasana, Madam Hijra Tabassum, and Hamid Jilani. As a gesture of appreciation, FCCI President Rehan Naseem Bharara presented an FCCI shield to PIA District Manager Shahid Hussain at the conclusion of the meeting.