Islamabad; April 7, 2025 – A disruptive incident unfolded on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK-749 from Islamabad to Paris on Sunday when a passenger allegedly attempted to violate onboard regulations by smoking. The situation escalated after a female flight attendant intervened, requesting the passenger to cease the prohibited activity, leading to a confrontation.
The passenger has been blacklisted by PIA and will no longer be permitted to travel on the national airline.
Despite the crew member’s polite request, the passenger allegedly continued to smoke and behaved inappropriately.
Upon further insistence from the cabin crew and the captain, the situation escalated. The PIA spokesman stated in a statement that the passenger physically assaulted the female flight attendant, twisting her arm and punching her in the back, resulting in injuries.
The passenger also reportedly attacked a flight steward and the captain, who, despite the provocation, maintained composure and managed to confiscate the cigarette.
In accordance with standard operating procedures, the captain informed French authorities mid-flight about the disruptive passenger. Upon arrival in Paris, the passenger was immediately taken into custody by the local police.
The PIA spokesman confirmed that statements from the affected cabin crew members have been recorded, and they have undergone medical examinations. A formal police report has been filed in France.
“French laws are very strict in such matters, and we expect that the passenger will not receive any leniency,” the PIA spokesman asserted.
Furthermore, PIA has taken swift action against the unruly passenger. “The passenger has been blacklisted by PIA and will no longer be permitted to travel on the national airline,” the spokesman declared.
The PIA spokesman lauded the professionalism displayed by the airline’s crew in handling the difficult situation while carrying out their duties. “PIA’s staff acted with utmost professionalism in the performance of their duties, and now the law will take its course,” he concluded.
French laws are very strict in such matters, and we expect that the passenger will not receive any leniency.
This incident underscores the airline’s zero-tolerance policy towards disruptive and violent behavior that jeopardizes the safety and well-being of passengers and crew. PIA has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe and respectful environment on all its flights.
Keywords: PIA Paris flight, passenger assault, PIA flight crew assault, smoking on PIA plane, disruptive PIA passenger, PIA blacklisted passenger, PIA French authorities, PIA spokesman statement on Paris flight