Do cabin crew smoke mid-flight? PIA bans smoking during duty hours

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has imposed a complete ban on smoking for cabin crew members during duty hours as part of new directives issued by the airline’s management. The latest directive has prompted questions about whether PIA personnel may have engaged in smoking during duty hours in violation of regulations, potentially compromising operational safety standards. According to the instructions, cabin crew personnel will not be allowed to smoke under any circumstances while on duty. The new policy also prohibits employees from carrying cigars, cigarettes, or other tobacco-related products in their hand-carry luggage or personal belongings. The directive states that the restriction applies not only during flights but throughout the entire duty period. Cabin crew members will also be barred from smoking while staying at hotels or visiting public places during official assignments. PIA management said the measure is aimed at maintaining professional discipline, ensuring compliance with institutional standards, and implementing uniform regulations for all staff members. Earlier, PIA has issued a new directive for its cabin crew, introducing strict restrictions on the possession and use of smoking-related items. Reports said the airline administration has banned air hostesses and other crew members from carrying cigarettes, cigars, and tobacco in their personal luggage. The move is part of a revised internal policy aimed at regulating staff conduct during duty. In addition to the luggage restriction, PIA has imposed a complete ban on smoking by crew members during flights, hotel stays, and in all public places while on duty. The new rules have reportedly created difficulties for habitual smokers among the airline staff. The airline has directed all crew members to strictly comply with the updated policy and warned that any violation will result in immediate suspension and disciplinary inquiry. Officials emphasized that adherence to the new guidel