Services of PIA COO eulogised

KARACHI: Managing-Director Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Ahmad Saeed has appreciated the contribution of PIA's Chief Operating Officer Khurshid Anwar to the turnaround of national flag-carrier in last 12 months -- a contribution that saved this national institution from total collapse.

"At time of my taking over PIA in April 2001, the government was seriously considering the option of closing down PIA, as it had incurred losses of Rs 5.14 billion in 2000-01, its losses were running in excess of Rs 20 million per day," Ahmad Saeed said in a letter to Khurshid.

He said looking back at the results of last nine months, "you have performed a task that looked unattainable at that time. After achieving profit of Rs 300 million in July-December 2001, expected profit of over Rs 1 billion in January-March 2002 is indicative of sustainability and also restructuring undertaken by you so painstakingly. You achieved this despite a world-wide turmoil in aviation industry, which has seen many a well-reputed and established airlines collapse," he added.

The PIA MD said not only has financial turnaround been achieved but also serious shortcomings and irregularities in operational and customer services identified.

"Your professional guidance in improving the PIA's revenues, market share, reduction of cost, plugging gross misuse of reservation set-up, global distribution system and irregularities of unscrupulous travel agents, which had caused heavy financial losses to the airline are reflection of your professional acumen, which in coming months will result in improvement of product," he said.

Ahmad Saeed said the PIA chairman also shares these views and wishes to put on record. "We are confident your efforts will continue to help PIA achieve its due place in world aviation industry. I have noticed with deep appreciation your personal commitment to the airline."


Source: Jang News