PIA: From sporting glory to downfall
Like many icons of the past, the organization that once soared high now faces turbulence
Javed Iqbal
Correspondent
Syed Javed Iqbal is a distinguished and seasoned sports journalist with over two decades of excellence in the field of sports media. He has been a prominent figure on some of Pakistan’s leading news channels, including ARY News, Aaj News, and 24 News, earning widespread recognition for his insightful reporting and comprehensive coverage. Throughout his illustrious career, Syed Javed Iqbal has reported from the frontlines of some of the world’s most prestigious international sporting events. His coverage includes six ICC Cricket World Cups, the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, South Asian Games, World Table Tennis Championships, Volleyball World Cup, FIFA Confederations Cup, Japan Open, Champions Trophy, Pakistan Super League (PSL), and the Asia Cup in hockey. His assignments have taken him across the globe to countries such as the USA, Japan, Australia, England, France, India, South Korea, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the UAE. Known for his on-ground presence and in-depth analysis, Syed Javed Iqbal has earned national and international acclaim as a credible and authoritative voice in sports journalism.
Once the pride of Pakistan’s skies and a cornerstone of national identity, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) was more than just an airline — it was a symbol of ambition, excellence, and possibility. Beyond connecting cities and countries, PIA played a vital role in nurturing Pakistan’s sporting talent, sponsoring athletes, and providing platforms that elevated the country’s presence on the global stage. From cricket to hockey, athletics to squash, the airline supported champions who carried the nation’s hopes and dreams with them, inspiring generations to strive for greatness.
For decades, PIA was synonymous with professionalism, reliability, and a sense of national pride. Its pilots, crew, and athletes represented the very best of Pakistan’s talent, while its sponsorships and sports initiatives became a lifeline for countless young sportsmen and women. The airline wasn’t just transporting people; it was transporting aspirations, ambitions, and the collective spirit of a nation determined to shine.
Yet, like many icons of the past, the airline that once soared high now faces turbulence. Years of mismanagement, financial challenges, and shifting priorities have dimmed the luster of what was once an emblem of excellence. The story of PIA is now a complex tapestry — one of glory and achievement, but also of decline and cautionary lessons for the future.








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