Welcome to the thrilling adventure of flying on a banned airline to Pakistan’s most dangerous airport! In this captivating video by Noel Philips, you will experience the journey from Islamabad to Skardu, a flight that takes you through stunning landscapes and presents unique challenges. From the excitement of visiting Islamabad again to the snowstorm expected in Skardu and the concerns about the return flight, this video covers it all. Prepare yourself for an inside look at PIA, an airline with a controversial safety record, as the narrator boards the flight, enjoys the breathtaking views, and even rides on the flight deck. With insights into PIA’s challenges and hopes for the future, as well as the author’s personal experiences and genuine appreciation for the crew, this article is sure to leave you fascinated and eager to embark on your own daring aviation journey.
Noel Philips, the mastermind behind this gripping video, takes you on an adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With footage of Islamabad Airport and Skardu Airport, stunning aerial views, and engaging conversations with the captain and crew, every moment of this journey is captured for your enjoyment. The author’s genuine gratitude towards the PIA crew, their impressive customer service, and the author’s three previous experiences with PIA, all contribute to a heartwarming conclusion, where the author wishes PIA the best in regaining their reputation as a world-class airline. So sit back, relax, and get ready to take flight on this banned airline to Pakistan’s most dangerous airport.
Flying on a Banned Airline: PIA to Pakistan’s Most Dangerous Airport
Introduction and Background
Welcome to this captivating journey of flying on a banned airline to Pakistan’s most dangerous airport. In this article, we will take you through the flight details, safety concerns of the airline, the flight experience and views, the layover in Skardu, and the flight deck experience. We will also discuss the safe landing in Islamabad, the round trip experience, the cost of the flight, upgrades and hospitality, and PIA’s commitment to improvement. We are excited to share this comprehensive account with you and provide insights into this unique adventure.
Flight Details and Itinerary
Our journey begins in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, where we embark on a flight to Skardu, known as the most dangerous airport in the country. Located in the northern region of Baltistan, Skardu is a destination that has always fascinated travelers due to its challenging landing approach and breathtaking scenery. PIA, the national carrier of Pakistan, operates this flight, allowing us to experience the thrill and excitement of reaching this remote location.
Safety Concerns of PIA
It is important to acknowledge that PIA has faced controversy regarding its safety record. In 2020, the airline experienced a tragic crash in Karachi involving an A320 aircraft. The plane landed without extending its landing gear, resulting in a belly landing. Despite attempts to go around, the damage sustained from the initial landing led to a fatal crash. Additionally, investigations revealed that a significant number of PIA pilots held suspicious or bogus licenses, leading to the airline’s ban from flying to the U.S., UK, and Europe. These safety concerns cast a shadow on PIA’s reputation and warrant a closer look into the airline’s commitment to improvement and passenger safety.
Flight Experience and Views
As we board the PIA flight to Skardu, excitement fills the air. The A320 aircraft, previously flown by Middle East Airlines, features a hybrid livery. The seating configuration is 3-3, offering a comfortable journey to the passengers. Legroom is ample, even for taller individuals, allowing for a pleasant flight experience. The scenic views from the window are simply breathtaking. The mountainous landscapes and valleys of Pakistan unfold before our eyes, reaffirming the country’s natural beauty.
Layover in Skardu
Upon arrival in Skardu, we face the challenge of a short layover. The snowstorm expected that night adds an element of uncertainty to our return flight. Skardu Airport, nestled in the Himalayas, is a small airport that lacks connecting flight facilities. This poses logistical difficulties for passengers such as ourselves who are on a quick turn-around trip. However, the friendly PIA crew assures us that we should be able to navigate this challenge smoothly.
Flight Deck Experience and Future Hope
One of the highlights of our journey is the opportunity to visit the flight deck during the return flight to Islamabad. We are fortunate to engage in conversations with the captain and first officer, who provide insights into the challenges faced by PIA and their hope for international flights to resume in the future. This firsthand experience and the pilots’ dedication to their profession instill confidence in PIA’s commitment to improvement and the safe operation of their flights.
Safe Landing in Islamabad
As our journey nears its end, we are relieved to witness a safe landing in Islamabad. The professionalism and skill displayed by the PIA pilots throughout the flight demonstrate their ability to navigate challenging conditions and ensure passengers’ safety. Despite the concerns raised about PIA’s safety record, this particular flight exemplifies the airline’s dedication to delivering a secure and comfortable travel experience.
Round Trip Experience
Our round trip experience from Islamabad to Skardu and back allows us to examine the overall quality of PIA’s service. Despite the constraints and time pressures imposed by the short layover, the airline manages to provide a seamless journey for the passengers. The efficiency of the boarding process, in-flight amenities, and friendly cabin crew contribute to a positive travel experience. This well-rounded trip leaves us with a sense of satisfaction and contentment.
Cost of the Flight
The cost of the flight itself is an important consideration for travelers. The approximate price for this round trip from Islamabad to Skardu is 260 US Dollars or about 214 pounds. Considering the unique nature of the route and the challenges involved, this pricing is competitive and reasonable.
Upgrades and Hospitality
While our journey did not include an upgrade to the flight deck on the return leg, we cannot overlook the remarkable hospitality extended by the entire PIA crew. The cabin crew’s attentiveness, professionalism, and willingness to assist passengers were truly commendable. From pre-takeoff drinks to in-flight meals, PIA exceeded our expectations and ensured a memorable experience.
PIA’s Commitment to Improvement
Though PIA has faced significant challenges in recent years, the airline remains committed to continuous improvement. Recognizing the need to address safety concerns and rebuild its reputation, PIA is determined to regain its status as a world-class airline. Open communication with passengers, implementation of stricter safety protocols, and ongoing training for pilots and crew are among the initiatives PIA has undertaken to enhance its operations. We applaud their dedication to improvement and wish them success in their endeavors.
Gratitude and Conclusion
In conclusion, our flying experience on a banned airline to Pakistan’s most dangerous airport was nothing short of exhilarating. We are immensely grateful to Captain Imran, the flight crew, and the entire PIA team for ensuring our safety and making this journey memorable. Despite the challenges faced by the airline, their commitment to improvement shines through and offers hope for a brighter future. We extend our gratitude to everyone involved and thank you, the readers, for joining us on this extraordinary adventure. Safe travels!