Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: The Cabinet Committee for Disposal of Legislative Cases (CCLC) has given its crucial nod to the Draft Pakistan Air Safety Investigation Act, 2023, ushering in a new era of fortified aviation safety measures in Pakistan. With the legislative hurdle cleared, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to London and Europe are set to resume, following their temporary suspension due to compliance requirements.
During the CCLC meeting held on July 7, 2023, the Ministry of Aviation sought the Chairman CCLC’s permission to table the summary concerning the draft bill. The Chairman granted approval for the submission, paving the way for an insightful briefing by the Ministry of Aviation.
Emphasizing the paramount importance of aviation safety, the Ministry highlighted the role of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as the global authority in aviation policy-making and regulation. ICAO’s Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) are instrumental in ensuring seamless and secure civil aviation operations worldwide. To align with ICAO’s requirements, Pakistan’s civil aviation system underwent a rigorous safety audit, the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Program, which unveiled certain discrepancies.
The Aircraft Accident (Accident/Incident Investigation) Rules (AAIIRs), 2021, were promulgated and notified in the Gazette of Pakistan under S.R.O 112(KE)/2021 on December 13, 2021, based on Section 30 of the PCAA Ordinance 2021. However, the lapse of the said Ordinance rendered the AAIIRs 2021 ineffective, leading the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board (AAIB) to revert to its inclusion in the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), contrary to ICAO’s stipulation.
In response to this development, the Ministry of Aviation spearheaded the formulation of the Draft Pakistan Air Safety Investigation Act, 2023, drawing from ICAO’s Model of Accidents Investigation Authority Act. The draft bill underwent thorough consultations with AAIB, PCAA, and ASF, key stakeholders in Pakistan’s civil aviation. It was also harmonized with international practices adopted by other member States. On May 26, 2023, the federal cabinet granted preliminary approval of the draft bill, and subsequent vetting and incorporation of amendments by the Law & Justice Division followed.
The National Aviation Policy 2019 of Pakistan underscored the need for an independent AAIB to conduct investigations into accidents, incidents, and serious incidents, ultimately enhancing aviation safety. However, to satisfy ICAO’s criteria, the establishment of an independent legislation empowering AAIB to conduct investigations autonomously was essential.
With the CCLC’s resolute approval of the Draft Pakistan Air Safety Investigation Act, 2023, the path is now paved for the bill’s forthcoming legislative process. Once enacted into law, this pivotal act will empower AAIB to conduct independent investigations, fostering transparency, and adherence to international aviation safety standards.
Beyond its impact on aviation safety, the approval of this act marks the final stride toward resuming PIA flights to London and Europe. The regulatory compliance requirements have been met, bolstering the confidence of passengers and stakeholders in Pakistan’s aviation industry.
The Ministry of Aviation expressed appreciation for the CCLC’s endorsement, signifying the nation’s commitment to ensuring a safe and compliant airspace. With this significant milestone achieved, Pakistan’s aviation industry embarks on a journey to fortify its safety protocols and strive for excellence in aviation operations.
