ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s national airline recently instructed its pilots and cabin crew members against fasting while flying during Ramadan, saying it could result in wrong and delayed actions due to impaired judgment and put the lives of passengers at risk.
In a safety advisory issued to staff members on Mar. 8, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) said while the sanctity of a fast is undeniable, people go through a change in routine to do so. It pointed out that fasting can cause hypoglycemia, dehydration, impaired judgment, slow reflexes, deterioration of judgment, and lowered stamina.
“After considering all the factors objectively, it would be clear that flying while fasting is not only risking your own life but that of others too, in the aircraft and on the ground,” the PIA said.
“It is, therefore, necessary that all those cockpit/cabin crew who are observing fast are advised “NOT” to fly.”
Muslims fast from dawn till dusk during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. They avoid eating, drinking and even smoking during the practice, which is one of the five pillars of Islam.
Pakistan is a predominantly Muslim country where more than ninety percent of its over 240 million people practice Islam, and most of them fast during the holy month.
The PIA further said that if any licensed pilot or crew member is aware or has reasonable grounds to believe that their physical condition has deteriorated, even if only temporarily due to a minor ailment or by a period of fasting, they shall not perform their duties until they are satisfied that their condition has improved.
“It is advised that cockpit crew/cabin crew should refrain from fasting,” the national flag carrier said.
Pakistan’s national airline instructs pilots, cabin crew against flying while fasting in Ramadan
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Pakistan’s national airline instructs pilots, cabin crew against flying while fasting in Ramadan
- In safety advisory to employees, Pakistan International Airlines says fasting can cause impaired judgment on part of pilots, cabin crew
- Pakistan is a predominantly Muslim country where over 90 percent of its 240 million people are Muslim, and many fast in Ramadan