ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) management has introduced a new restriction on the quantity of cigarettes that cabin crew members can carry while performing flying duties, warning of disciplinary action against those who violate the directive.
According to a circular issued by PIA management, a cabin crew member will be permitted to carry only one packet, containing up to 20 cigarettes, while travelling on flying duty.
The circular states that carrying more than one packet or 20 cigarettes during duty will result in action against the concerned cabin crew member.
PIA management has warned that violators could face suspension and removal from flying duties, depending on the circumstances and applicable disciplinary procedures.
The airline has also directed that cabin crew members be briefed about the new instruction before departure. The management has instructed relevant officials to ensure strict compliance with the directive.
The new restriction comes after an incident involving a PIA flight from Multan to Jeddah, according to sources. Five cabin crew members were reportedly found carrying a large quantity of cigarette packets during the flight operation.
Sources said the matter has been referred to the PIA Human Resources department, where an inquiry against the five crew members is reportedly under way.
The latest directive appears to establish a specific limit for cigarettes carried by cabin crew during flying duty and seeks to prevent the unauthorised transportation of larger quantities.
Airline cabin crew operate under specific company policies and aviation-related regulations, while international flights may also involve customs requirements concerning goods carried across borders.
PIA management has therefore instructed its operating staff to comply with the newly issued directive and avoid carrying quantities exceeding the prescribed limit.
The requirement has also been communicated through pre-flight briefings, allowing cabin crew members to be informed of the restriction before beginning their duty.
The airline's decision follows scrutiny of the reported Multan-Jeddah incident, with the HR inquiry expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the cigarette packets allegedly carried by the five crew members.
Until the completion of the inquiry, the allegations against the individuals remain subject to the internal investigation process.
The new instruction applies specifically to cigarettes carried by cabin crew during flying duty, with the circular setting the permitted quantity at one packet or 20 cigarettes.
PIA management has directed its relevant departments to ensure implementation of the order and warned staff that violations could lead to disciplinary consequences, including suspension or removal from flying duties.