More than 1,500 Pakistani pilots are reportedly without work while domestic airlines have recruited over 150 pilots from abroad, prompting the Aircraft Owners and Operators Association of Pakistan to seek government intervention, according to 24 News HD.
Association seeks hiring review
The association wants the government to reconsider the rules governing foreign pilot recruitment. It is seeking preference for qualified Pakistani pilots in both employment and training.
Citing a local media report, the outlet said association founder Imran Aslam Khan sent a letter to the Secretary Defence on October 29. He requested action by the Aviation Division to safeguard employment opportunities for Pakistani pilots.
Employment and foreign exchange concerns
Khan argued in the letter that recruiting pilots from overseas was reducing qualified Pakistanis’ chances of finding work. He also said the practice was adding to pressure on Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves.
He further claimed that foreign pilots employed by local airlines received tax-free monthly pay reaching $15,000. The salary figure and concerns about the impact of foreign recruitment were presented as Khan’s claims.
