PIA faces court questions over medical benefits for retired workers

The Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) issued the direction during a hearing led by Justice Hassan Rizvi. The court stressed that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) should recognise the services of its former employees.

Court stresses responsibility towards retired staff

Justice Rizvi said PIA should not leave former employees unsupported after they had spent their best working years serving the airline. He stressed that institutions should respect the contributions of retired workers.

The judge also said retired employees’ concerns should be considered fairly. He urged PIA to find a solution that protects former staff while ensuring medical benefits are used properly.

Judge highlights misuse of medical benefits

Justice Rizvi acknowledged that some people had misused medical benefits, causing problems for institutions. He said strict action should be taken against anyone found involved in fraud.

To explain the issue, the judge recalled cases in which people had bought perfumes by misusing the medical facility. The example highlighted the need for proper checks to prevent benefits from being used for purposes other than healthcare.

PIA explains changes to medical limits

PIA’s lawyer told the court that the airline had reviewed and reorganised its medical benefits for employees. The lawyer said the annual medical facility limit had been increased from Rs250,000 to Rs500,000.

The increase raises the yearly medical limit available under the facility. However, the court stressed that the airline must also address the concerns of retired employees.

FCC seeks response from PIA

The court directed PIA to submit its reply on the medical facilities provided to retired workers. It also urged the airline to handle the matter on humanitarian grounds, considering the years former employees had served the national carrier.

The court’s direction highlights the need to balance employee welfare with measures against misuse. PIA’s response will help clarify how it plans to address the concerns raised over retired employees’ medical benefits.

Retired employees may continue to need medical support after leaving service. PIA faces the challenge of helping former workers while ensuring that only eligible people use the facility properly.

Also read: PAA fines PIA over Rs10m for delayed baggage delivery