PIA has issued a letter for its crew members and pilots advising them not to fast during flights.

The message focused on the advice by Corporate Safety Management and the Aircrew Medical Centre that “in-flight fasting” is a possibility. However, it can be a risk so the company needs to exercise safety for both passengers and employees.

The letter stated that pilots and cabin crew are advised to be cautious while flying and against fasting as it can harm their and passenger’s life.

Fasting and flying are not analogous and can be dangerous during emergencies as there is a need to take immediate responses that cannot be possible during fasting.

It said that alertness and decision-making abilities could be reduced in fasting which can result in serious outcomes.

Fasting is an essential obligation in Islam that can hinder normal routine and result in physiological changes such as hypoglycemia and dehydration that can reduce concentration, reaching decisions and attention.

The letter underlined both religious aspects and professionalism during the flight. It constrained the employees to fast during flights and underscores the need to abide by rules. Safety instructions were emphasized by PIA for their employees in this message.

“A circular had been previously issued on this matter, and the airline is diligently ensuring its implementation to uphold safety standards,” a PIA spokesperson said to the Express Tribune.

Section D11.2 of CAA’s Air Navigation Order In compliance of CARs 1994 Rule 41(3) no crew member shall exercise the privileges of his/ her license as a crew member while fasting.