Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

PIA Resumes Paris Flights Amid Controversial Ad Backlash

1/10/2025

50 10

Summary

Story summary

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has triumphantly resumed flights to Paris after a four-year ban by the EU. However, a controversial promotional image depicting a plane nosediving towards the Eiffel Tower ignited a firestorm of outrage online, with many drawing unsettling parallels to the 9/11 attacks. Critics slammed the ad as "tone deaf," highlighting PIA's troubled safety record.

History

Historical Context

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed flights to Paris after a four-year EU ban due to safety concerns. The airline's history is marred by numerous accidents and scandals, including a 2020 revelation that many pilots held fake licenses. This incident echoes the broader aviation industry's struggles with safety and regulation, reminiscent of the 1980s when airlines faced intense scrutiny after several high-profile crashes.

1 of 2

Story summary

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has triumphantly resumed flights to Paris after a four-year ban by the EU. However, a controversial promotional image depicting a plane nosediving towards the Eiffel Tower ignited a firestorm of outrage online, with many drawing unsettling parallels to the 9/11 attacks. Critics slammed the ad as "tone deaf," highlighting PIA's troubled safety record.

1 / 2