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ARY NEWS

Salah Uddin

  • Air cargo charges jacked up in Pakistan

    Air cargo charges jacked up in Pakistan

    The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has raised cargo handling charges across all airports in the country for the first time in five years, ARY News reported on Wednesday.

    The revised rates came into effect on July 1, according to an official notification issued in the wee hours of Wednesday.

    Under the new tariff schedule, the air cargo charges for transporting pet birds have been raised by 50%. The fee has jumped from Rs200 to Rs300 per kilogramme.

    Similarly, cargo charges on betel leaves, a commonly shipped item, have doubled to Rs70 per kilogramme.

    General cargo rates have also been increased by 25%, moving from Rs100 to Rs125 per kilogramme.

    In addition to pet birds, the air cargo charges revised list covers air freight fees for pets like cats and dogs, as well as for miscellaneous items categorised as general cargo.

    Read more: Pakistan imposes climate support levy on petroleum products

    It may be noted that the federal government increased petrol prices for the next fortnight, pushing the petrol price up by Rs8.36 per litre.

    According to a notification issued by the Pakistan Ministry of Finance, the petrol price had been increased by Rs14.80 per litre, bringing the new petrol price to Rs266.89 per litre.

    Similarly, the price of high-speed diesel had been raised by Rs10.39 per litre, with the new rate set at Rs272.98 per litre in Pakistan.

  • TDAP to represent Pakistan at Heimtextil Frankfurt 2026

    TDAP to represent Pakistan at Heimtextil Frankfurt 2026

    Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) to represent pakistan at Heimtextil Frankfurt 2026, ARY News reported.

    Heimtextil is the largest international trade fair for home and contract textiles, taking place in Frankfurt, Germany, from January 13–16, 2026. The fair will showcase the widest variety of home textiles and a broad range of products for interior design, making it the leading platform for the latest innovations and trends in the textile industry.

    Heimtextil 2026 will showcase new trends and a global range of textiles and carpets for bedrooms, bathrooms, living spaces, and flooring. With the addition of Flooring & Equipment, the fair now covers the entire textile and non-textile interior design sector, offering greater business opportunities and international connections across residential and hospitality markets. Featured products include fitted carpets, handmade and machine-made carpets and rugs, custom and unique pieces, mats, runners, fibres and yarns, machinery, accessories, and furs.

    The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan will participate with the Pakistan pavilion in Heimtextil Frankfurt 2026.

    275 exhibitors from Pakistan showcased their products at Heimtextil 2025 in which 64 exhibitors participated under the pavilion of Trade Development Authority of Pakistan and 211 Participated independently.

    Pakistan holds a strong position in the global textile industry, and its continued presence at Heimtextil.

  • Three foreign planes ‘grounded’ after incidents at Karachi airport

    Three foreign planes ‘grounded’ after incidents at Karachi airport

    Karachi airport is currently hosting three grounded foreign aircraft following a series of separate incidents, ARY News reported on Monday, citing sources within aviation authority.

    According to sources, one of the incidents involved an international courier company’s cargo plane, which was struck by a loader truck on the tarmac at the Karachi airport.

    The collision caused damage to the aircraft, particularly breaking the left-wing lights and impacting three structural points.

    The aircraft has not yet undergone repairs, and a specialized technical team from abroad is expected to arrive in Karachi soon to commence restoration work.

    In a separate case, a Turkish Airlines aircraft remains parked in the airport’s apron area. It was grounded after a bird strike damaged one of its engines.

    A Saudia Airlines plane is also still stationed at Karachi Airport after it made an emergency landing due to an engine fire warning.

    Read more: PIA flight grounded at Istanbul airport

    The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) engineering team has begun preliminary work to rectify the technical fault.

    Earlier in January, last year, it was reported that nine planes of Pakistan International Airline (PIA) were grounded due to “shortage of spare parts”.

    Sources privy to the development said that out of 31 planes in the fleet, nine aircraft have been grounded due to the non-availability of spare parts. The grounded aircraft includes five Airbus-320, three Boeing-777 and one ATR craft.

    Uncertainty persisted about the future of the national airline as it is mostly relying on the State Bank of Pakistan, sources claimed, adding that leasing companies have termed Pakistan’s CCC rating against business policies.

  • Jinnah airport Karachi issues rain alert guidelines

    Jinnah airport Karachi issues rain alert guidelines

    The Jinnah International airport administration has issued safety directives following rain prediction in Karachi, ARY News reported on Wednesday.

    In the guidelines, the Jinnah airport administration has instructed all departments to remain on high alert during the monsoon season in Karachi.

    Meanwhile, the airport authority warned of an increased risk of bird activity due to insect breeding during rain.

    It directed that bird control personnel and inspectors must be deployed at the airside.

    Additionally, measures should be taken to relocate or secure light aircraft in safe areas. The authority also emphasized the need to clear obstructions outside the perimeter fence to ensure proper drainage of rainwater.

    Read more: Karachi likely to receive heavy rain, thunderstorm

    The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast hot and humid weather in Karachi for the next two days.

    According to PMD, partly cloudy conditions are expected to persist, with high humidity levels contributing to uncomfortable conditions.

    The PMD also noted that sea breezes are partially blocked, leading to continued oppressive heat in the city. However, a shift in weather is anticipated from Friday (June 27), with the possibility of dust storms and thunderstorms accompanied by rain.

    Earlier, PDMA Punjab said that Lahore airport area received 37mm rainfall in 24 hours.

    A spokesman of the PDMA while sharing details of pre-monsoon rainfall in various districts of the province said that Lahore airport area received 37mm rainfall while the remaining city areas received 4mm rain.

  • PIA resumes flights to Gulf states

    PIA resumes flights to Gulf states

    Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) on Tuesday resumed flight operations to Gulf countries following the enforcement of a ceasefire between Iran and Israel, as per US President Donald Trump.

    On Monday night, PIA announced a temporary suspension of flights to several Gulf countries as a precautionary measure in light of the escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf region.

    “The safety of our passengers remains our top priority,” the PIA spokesperson said. “We deeply regret the inconvenience caused by the flight cancellations, but these steps are necessary under the current circumstances.”

    PIA assured that flights would resume once the regional situation returns to normal.

    Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has reported delays ranging from 4 to 13 hours on flights to various Gulf countries. Across major airports including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, a total of 55 flights have been delayed.

    Read more: Qatar reopens airspace after Israel-Iran ceasefire

    Earlier, The national air carrier of Pakistan started a special operation to bring back Pakistanis stranded in Iran amid Israel-Iran conflict.

    A PIA aircraft departed from Peshawar to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, on Tuesday evening to facilitate the evacuation.

    With the assistance of the Pakistani embassy, 150 Pakistanis were transported from the Iranian city of Mashhad to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

    These individuals, who were stuck due to the closure of Iranian airspace, will be flown back to their homeland via a special PIA flight from Ashgabat.

  • PIA suspends flights to Gulf states amid rising regional tensions

    PIA suspends flights to Gulf states amid rising regional tensions

    Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced a temporary suspension of flights to several Gulf countries as a precautionary measure in light of the escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf region, ARY News reported.

    According to a statement issued by the airline’s spokesperson, flights from Pakistan to Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Dubai have been cancelled. The decision was made due to the growing risk posed by the ongoing conflict-like situation in parts of the Gulf.

    “The safety of our passengers remains our top priority,” the PIA spokesperson said. “We deeply regret the inconvenience caused by the flight cancellations, but these steps are necessary under the current circumstances.”

    PIA assured that flights will resume once the regional situation returns to normal.

    Passengers who had booked travel on the affected routes are advised to stay updated through the PIA call centre for the latest information about their flights.

    The PIA reservations department has begun rebooking affected passengers on alternative available flights.

    “We apologise for the disruption and inconvenience this may cause,” the statement read, “but the safety and security of our travellers come before all else.”

    PIA has urged all travellers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.

    Read More: PIA begins safe return of Pakistanis stranded in Iran

    Earlier, The national air carrier of Pakistan started a special operation to bring back Pakistanis stranded in Iran amid Israel-Iran conflict.

    A PIA aircraft departed from Peshawar to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, on Tuesday evening to facilitate the evacuation.

    With the assistance of the Pakistani embassy, 150 Pakistanis were transported from the Iranian city of Mashhad to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

    These individuals, who were stuck due to the closure of Iranian airspace, will be flown back to their homeland via a special PIA flight from Ashgabat.

    Following government directives, PIA has announced that additional special flights will be arranged to ensure the safe return of more stranded citizens.

  • Uzbekistan Airlines launches direct flights from Islamabad to Tashkent

    Uzbekistan Airlines launches direct flights from Islamabad to Tashkent

    ISLAMABAD: The successful launch of the inaugural direct flight HY466, which will be operational from Islamabad to Tashkent was celebrated by Uzbekistan Airlines with an outstanding ceremony, marking a new phase in the regional flight network, ARY News reported.

    The event was precisely organised, containing a festive atmosphere at Zone 1, where arrivals were recorded with a lavish ambience of vibrant decorations, balloons, and an excited atmosphere.

    The flight, initially scheduled to depart at 11:50 AM, took off at 1:09 PM with 126 passengers on board.

    The occasion was honoured by the presence of prominent guests, including the ambassadors of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan, together with main authorities like the COO/APM, MD PTDC, and the Airlines Country Manager. The presence of international media teams emphasised the importance of this milestone.

    Passengers were given a warm welcome at Stand 3, and as the flight arrived, a formal cake-cutting ceremony was held in Lounge A5, symbolising the official launch of direct flight operations of Uzbekistan Airlines from Islamabad.

    This new route of Islamabad-Tashkent flight is likely to improve economic interdependence and regional linkage, positioning with broader initiatives such as the Central and South Asia Connectivity Initiative.

    Read More: PIA shares update on flight operation after Israel attack Iran

    Uzbekistan Airways has dedicated to running this weekly flight every Saturday, further fostering closer ties and enhancing bilateral partnerships between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

    The airline already operates twice a week on Wednesdays and Fridays, direct flights to Lahore, contributing to its expanding footprint in the region.

    The new Islamabad-Tashkent flight is likely to increase tourism, business travel, and cultural exchanges, making Uzbekistan’s iconic Silk Road cities, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, more reachable to Pakistani travellers.

    Ongoing growth of Uzbekistan Airlines in operations is expected to establish a vital air link that will enable transregional trade and transit.

    This development will provide advantages to key sectors including textiles, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and tourism. This achievement highlights the mutual dedication of Uzbekistan and Pakistan to enhancing diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties, thereby paving the way for increased regional cooperation and connectivity.

  • Over 100 PIA planes hit by birds in 2024

    Over 100 PIA planes hit by birds in 2024

    Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) reported 102 bird strike incidents involving its aircraft during year 2024, ARY News reported on Friday.

    According to the airline’s official report, the Airbus A320 fleet was the most affected, accounting for 85 of the total incidents in the last year.

    Among the airports, Lahore witnessed the highest number of bird strikes with 28 cases, followed by Islamabad with 18 and Karachi with 17. Multan reported 14 incidents, while Faisalabad recorded 6.

    Nine PIA aircraft were directly affected by bird strikes in 2024, with significant financial damage caused to the national carrier. PIA estimates that bird strike-related repairs cost the airline thousands of dollars annually.

    The trend continues into 2025, with 25 bird strike incidents recorded in the first five months of the year. These included 14 cases involving A320s and 10 involving Boeing 777 aircraft.

    Lahore, Multan, and Karachi reported 6, 5, and 2 cases respectively, while Islamabad, Peshawar, and Sialkot each recorded two incidents.

    Read more: PIA flight hit by bird after take-off from Karachi airport

    April 2025 alone saw 7 bird strikes, underscoring the persistent threat during warmer months.

    In light of the upcoming Eidul Adha festivities, PIA has issued a public advisory urging citizens to dispose of animal waste at designated locations only and avoid dumping remains near airport vicinities.

    “Improper disposal of offal near airports significantly increases the risk of bird strikes, which can lead to major aviation accidents,” the airline warned.

    PIA underlined the importance of maintaining cleanliness around airports and called on citizens to exercise caution and responsibility, especially during Eid celebrations, to prevent potential tragedies.

  • PIA to ‘upgrade’ in-flight experience to int’l level

    PIA to ‘upgrade’ in-flight experience to int’l level

    KARACHI: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has decided to upgrade passenger facilities onboard to meet international standards, ARY News reported on Monday, citing sources.

    As part of the enhancement initiative, PIA will install brand-new, modern seating in both economy and business class sections of its Boeing 777 aircraft.

    The upgrade also includes the introduction of a new in-flight entertainment system aimed at providing passengers with a more comfortable and engaging travel experience with PIA.

    The improvements are specifically geared toward long-haul routes, with a focus on passengers traveling to Europe and the United Kingdom, who are expected to benefit significantly from the upgraded facilities.

    Read more: PIA privatisation to ‘complete’ by THIS month

    The national flag carrier is hopeful that these developments will support its bid to resume flights to key destinations such as the UK and the United States.

    In a separate development, the privatisation of Pakistan International Airline (PIA) is likely to complete by November 2025, sources said.

    According to source, the government of Pakistan is planning to sell fifty percent shares of the national airline.

    Sources further revealed that domestic and international groups have shown interest in buying PIA shares.

    It is important to mention here that the value of Class B shares of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Holding Company witnessed an extraordinary increase.

  • Pakistan CAA officers earn ICAO certification

    Pakistan CAA officers earn ICAO certification

    In a remarkable achievement, the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has completed another key milestone in aviation security by confirming and certifying all its Directorate of Aviation Security officers as internationally recognised Aviation Security Inspectors, ARY News reported.

    This accomplishment was achieved by an extensive training and testing program, which was conducted by ICAO-qualified UK Department for Transport (DfT) instructors.

    The training, which was held in Pakistan was consisted of the country’s aviation security standards with global protocols and reinforced its compliance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations.

    Pakistan has a leading rank in the subcontinent in aviation security, as mentioned in ratings at ICAO Effective Implementation under the Universal Security Audit Program (USAP).

    The recent certification will improve the abilities of Pakistan CAA Aviation Security Inspectors, ensuring adherence to international aviation security protocols.

    Read More: European Civil Aviation team in Pakistan to train CAA staff

    Moreover, after achieving this milestone, Pakistan CAA has secured sponsored educational seats for its safety inspectors at the renowned institutions in France and South Korea.

    Two officers from this certification will be able to pursue completely funded Master’s programs and advanced aviation training in France and South Korea, through collaboration with these countries.

    By this initiative, Pakistan’s presence in global aviation forums will be strengthened, and regulatory expertise will be enhanced.

    According to Director General Nadir Shafi Dar, Pakistan CAA Aviation Security Certification is the vital step toward accomplishing the Minister and Secretary of Defense’s vision.

    He emphasised the commitment of the authority to specialised training, participation in global aviation conferences, and membership in international aviation groups, ensuring Pakistan becomes a strong and effective voice in the global aviation industry.

    This achievement is not only a fast-paced rise for Pakistan CAA but also a remarkable milestone in improving the abilities of Pakistan CAA Aviation Security, reinforcing its position as a leader in aviation security and regulatory expertise.