Islamabad: PIA has dismissed the president and general secretary of the Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP). This move comes amid an ongoing dispute between airline management and the Engineers Association. Accused of sharing information without permission According to a report in Dawn, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez confirmed that SAEP President Abdullah Jadoun and General Secretary Awais Jadoun were removed from service today. The dismissal notice stated that Abdullah Jadoun was accused of holding a press conference and sharing official information with the media without permission. Awais Jadoun was accused of leaking confidential operational details and PIA photographs. What did the notice say? The notice stated that these allegations were investigated, but both officials failed to appear at the hearing despite being given several opportunities. After reviewing the available evidence and witness statements, the investigation committee found them guilty. The notice read, "Management has decided to dismiss you from the service of Pakistan International Airlines as you did not attend the hearing of the case despite being given adequate opportunities." Engineers demanding a pay hike for two and a half months This dismissal comes at a time when flight operations are being affected due to a dispute between PIA management and SAEP. Engineers have been protesting for two and a half months demanding a pay hike and other benefits. They have stopped issuing aircraft clearance certificates, disrupting many flights. PIA says the engineers are on strike. SAEP claims they are working but are only clearing aircraft that meet all safety standards. PIA has termed this action illegal under the Essential Services Act and warned that legal action will be taken against any such employees.
