PIA and ASF Ordered to Take Action Over Alleged Misconduct With Senators
The Senate Rules of Procedure and Privileges Committee has directed Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and the Airport Security Force (ASF) to take appropriate disciplinary action against staff members accused of inappropriate behaviour toward senators.
The committee, chaired by Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi, reviewed three privilege motions concerning alleged incidents involving PIA cabin crew and ASF personnel.
Complaint Against PIA Cabin Crew
The committee considered a privilege motion submitted by Senator Bilal Ahmed Khan Mandokhail regarding an alleged incident involving a PIA crew member on flight PK-326, which travelled from Quetta to Islamabad on February 7, 2026.
The senator told the committee that no PIA official had contacted him, despite an earlier recommendation that the concerned employee should apologise.
After reviewing the matter, the committee recommended departmental action against the PIA employee and subsequently disposed of the privilege motion.
Senator Raises Concern Over ASF Official
The committee also discussed a privilege motion filed by Senator Samina Mumtaz Zehri, who alleged inappropriate conduct by ASF personnel during the check-in process for Emirates flight EK-601 on July 24, 2026.
According to the senator, an ASF official inspected her hand-carry luggage and allegedly behaved inappropriately during the security check.
A senior ASF officer apologised to the committee and assured members that the matter would be referred to the relevant authorities, including Pakistan Customs, for further action.
Committee Calls for Staff Training
The committee recommended additional public-dealing and communication training for ASF personnel to help ensure that passengers and other individuals are treated appropriately during security procedures.
It also directed that the inquiry into the incident be completed within 15 days.
The committee further instructed that the official allegedly involved in the incident should appear before the next meeting to provide an explanation regarding the matter.
The proceedings highlighted the committee’s emphasis on professional conduct by airline and airport security personnel, particularly when dealing with passengers and public representatives.
