An alleged seat-allocation fraud involving more than Rs. 5.06 million has been uncovered at Pakistan International Airlines’ (PIA) Lahore station at Allama Iqbal International Airport, with over 20 officers and employees reportedly named in connection with the case.
According to sources, the staff allegedly collected additional payments from passengers in exchange for premium seats.
However, after the flights departed, the bookings were reportedly changed from premium to regular seats to conceal the extra payments and manipulate the official records.
The irregularities were detected by the airline’s Finance and Audit Committee during an examination of booking and financial records for May 2024 and May 2025.
The review reportedly revealed discrepancies in seat allocations and payments, raising concerns about the handling of passenger bookings and revenue collection at the Lahore station.
Sources further stated that the amount involved in the alleged fraud was recovered through deductions from the salaries of the employees concerned.
However, despite the recovery of the money, those allegedly involved reportedly continued working in their existing positions.
The sources also alleged that senior officials had obstructed further proceedings against the individuals named in the case.
These claims raise questions about accountability and the progress of the investigation, although the allegations regarding the involvement of senior officials have not been independently established.
The case has renewed concerns about financial oversight and transparency within the national airline, particularly regarding premium-seat bookings and revenue management.
Further action and a clear account of the investigation’s findings would be necessary to establish individual responsibility and determine whether additional disciplinary measures will follow.
