Whenever a green-and-white aircraft bearing Pakistan’s flag landed at a foreign airport, it brought with it an indescribable sense of comfort and pride for every Pakistani present. It wasn’t just a plane touching down – it was the symbolic arrival of one’s homeland, a moment that carried the presence of the state and a deep affirmation of identity. Whether in Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, or Manila, the arrival of a PIA aircraft was a proud reminder that a dignified nation stood behind its people. Today, all of this feels like a distant dream.

The Rise and Fall of PIA
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), once counted among Asia’s premier airlines, has now become a victim of administrative incompetence, political interference, and financial mismanagement. PIA has ceased operations in several important countries, including Japan, South Korea, China, and the Philippines. For the nearly 150,000 Pakistanis residing in these countries, this is a cause of constant hardship – whether for everyday travel, business, education, or emergencies.

The Importance of Overseas Pakistanis
At every forum, the Pakistani government acknowledges overseas Pakistanis as the “economic backbone” of the country – and rightly so. Billions of dollars are remitted annually, foreign investments are made, and Pakistan’s image is elevated internationally because of the contributions of these individuals. In countries like Japan, South Korea, China, and the Philippines, tens of thousands of Pakistanis are actively contributing in sectors such as labor, business, education, and diplomacy.

Each of these countries hosts approximately 35,000 Pakistanis. For them, having a reliable, affordable, and dignified means of air travel is not a luxury but a necessity – and only a national carrier can provide this with the commitment it demands.

PIA’s Role – From Pride to Crisis
PIA was once a source of national pride, not just domestically but globally. This was the same institution that helped launch several international airlines, including Emirates. Sadly, internal corruption, political appointments, and unprofessional decision-making have dragged PIA into decline.

Today, if an overseas Pakistani wishes to travel back home, they must rely on expensive, often uncomfortable, and sometimes unreliable private or foreign airlines. The result is an experience that is not just inconvenient but also emotionally, nationally, and economically damaging.

A Human Angle: The Repatriation of the Deceased
One of the most sensitive and emotional issues arises when an overseas Pakistani passes away. In the past, PIA would shoulder the responsibility of repatriating the deceased with compassion and efficiency. It was a moment where the national airline stood by grieving families and symbolized the presence of the state in their hour of need.

Now, with PIA no longer operating in these countries, families face days of delays, excessive cargo fees, diplomatic hurdles, and logistical uncertainty – a scenario unbecoming of any nation that claims to care for its citizens.

Diplomatic and Commercial Consequences
Pakistan’s diplomatic, educational, and trade ties with countries like Japan, Korea, China, and the Philippines are steadily growing. Students, entrepreneurs, diplomats, workers, and tourists are strengthening these relations. But without direct air connectivity, such relationships are hindered.

If PIA were to resume operations on these routes, not only would it benefit Pakistani citizens, but it would also enhance Pakistan’s diplomatic presence – what can be termed as “aerial diplomacy,” a powerful tool in today’s interconnected world.

Reviving PIA: A Step in National Interest
The idea that PIA should be shut down or fully privatized is shortsighted and narrow. Across the world, national airlines serve not just for profit, but as symbols of national prestige, drivers of tourism, providers of emergency services, and carriers of state responsibility. You don’t shut down a national institution just because it is running at a loss – especially when the cause of that loss is fixable.

The government should immediately launch special PIA flights to Japan, Korea, China, and the Philippines. A separate business model should be designed for these routes, including the acquisition of new aircraft, training of professional staff, and the modernization of online systems. If managed honestly, this initiative could become a sustainable revenue stream for PIA.

An Appeal to the Government
We strongly urge the Government of Pakistan, especially the Prime Minister, to restore PIA services to Japan, Korea, China, and the Philippines without delay. The lives of approximately 150,000 Pakistanis in these countries depend on this facility. This would not merely be the resumption of a service – it would be the restoration of national dignity and identity.

Overseas Pakistanis have made countless sacrifices for their homeland over the years. Their services, hard work, and loyalty deserve respect and recognition. The state must provide them with a safe, affordable, and honorable means of travel – something only the national airline can truly offer.