Saudi Aviation Warns Pakistani Airlines Over Flight Delays

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has warned Pakistani airlines over repeated delays in Umrah flights. The authority sent a strong letter to Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The letter highlighted poor punctuality and warned of possible penalties. This warning comes after several delays created difficulties for passengers travelling to the kingdom.

According to GACA, international standards require 80 per cent on-time flight performance. However, Pakistani airlines are falling far short of this level. The authority noted that delays are becoming frequent and unacceptable.

As a result, officials have demanded immediate corrective measures. They also made it clear that strict action will follow if delays continue.

The letter revealed specific performance rates for Pakistani airlines. PIA recorded a 69 per cent punctuality rate. Air Blue achieved 65 per cent, while Fly Jinnah managed only 43 per cent.

Air Sial stood at 46 per cent, and Serene Air remained the lowest at 37 per cent. These figures showed serious gaps compared to global expectations.

Furthermore, the Saudi aviation body emphasised the growing challenges caused by these delays. Passengers travelling for Umrah often face long waits and frustration.

Airlines also struggle to maintain smooth schedules when delays build up. GACA insisted that Pakistani carriers must fix these problems quickly. Otherwise, financial penalties will likely be enforced soon.

In conclusion, this warning serves as a wake-up call for Pakistan’s aviation sector. Improving on-time performance is now a critical requirement. Airlines will need stronger management and better planning to meet international standards.

If they fail, they risk damaging their reputation and paying heavy fines. Therefore, quick improvements remain the only way forward.