KARACHI: All seven passengers that had to stand on a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Karachi to Madina on January 20, had availed the online discount which purchasing their tickets, claims the airline’s management.
The airline boarded passengers on what appeared to have been an overbooked flight PK-743 with seven passengers standing throughout the four-hour flight.
According to the national carrier’s management, these passengers had booked their flights online, through discount coupons. “They had checked the terms and conditions, which clearly said that the passengers would be standing up during the flight,” a PIA official clarified.
The aircraft, a Boeing 777, had a seating alignment for 409 people, with 416 passengers boarding the flight.
Speaking to The Dependent, PIA spokesperson Danyal Gilani said, “An increasing number of our clients are availing this discount, and we’re witnessing unprecedented passengers and unparalleled revenue. The more people stand up during the flight, the sooner PIA will stand up on its feet.”
Another PIA official wishing anonymity said that the airline is planning to offer special rates for the wings and engine as well. “It will be a unique experience and at 40% of what you’d normally pay for the flight.”