A Pakistan International Airlines officer has been suspended after allegedly attempting to help a passenger clear dozens of liquor bottles from Allama Iqbal International Airport under the guise of protocol arrangements.
According to reports, the incident occurred two days ago when a passenger arriving from Abu Dhabi on an Etihad Airways flight was intercepted at the airport. The passenger, who traveled on flight EY 284, was allegedly carrying around 65 bottles of premium liquor in his luggage.
Airport authorities reportedly became suspicious during the clearance process and conducted a detailed inspection, leading to the recovery of the liquor bottles. Initial investigations suggested that a PIA official attempted to facilitate the passenger’s clearance by using protocol channels to avoid scrutiny.
Following the incident, the airline administration took immediate action and suspended the officer pending further inquiry. Authorities are now investigating whether additional staff members were involved in the alleged attempt to bypass airport regulations.
The case has drawn attention to airport security and customs enforcement procedures at one of Pakistan’s busiest international airports. Officials are expected to examine how such a large quantity of prohibited items was allegedly being moved through airport channels.
Sources indicate that customs and aviation authorities are coordinating investigations to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident. Legal action may also be considered depending on the findings of the inquiry.
The incident has sparked discussions regarding transparency, misuse of official influence, and enforcement of airport regulations in Pakistan’s aviation sector. Observers believe stricter monitoring and accountability measures are necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Pakistan International Airlines has not yet released a detailed public statement regarding the ongoing investigation. Further developments are expected as authorities continue reviewing the matter.