People crowd PIA offices following Saudi Arabia’s 72-hour return deadline

People across the country crowded offices of the Pakistan International Airways after Saudi Arabia imposed a 72-hour deadline for iqama holders (residents) to return to the Kingdom. The decision was taken a precautionary measure after the global coronavirus outbreak. PIA was ordered by the federal government on Friday to only operate international flights from Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad.

ccording to the president of the PIA union, the airline is in talks with Saudi Arabia over extension of the deadline. “We are trying our best but nothing can be done as long as the airport is closed,” he said.

Source: Samaa