PIA Apologizes After Paris Ad Sparks Backlash
- Fahad Bin Khalid
- January 21, 2025
- 3:11 pm
- 36
- Trending
The controversial PIA ad has caused significant online backlash. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) issued a public apology after an advertisement featuring one of its planes flying toward the Eiffel Tower stirred up widespread criticism. The ad, posted to mark the resumption of flights to Paris, was soon criticized for being insensitive and triggering comparisons to the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
The Controversial Ad
The ad showed a PIA aircraft flying directly toward the iconic Eiffel Tower, with the caption, “Paris, we’re coming today.” The image, intended to celebrate the airline’s return to Paris after safety restrictions were lifted, quickly sparked outrage. Social media users noticed the disturbing similarity to the 2001 attacks, where hijacked planes crashed into the World Trade Center, causing the deaths of nearly 3,000 people.
Backlash and Criticism
The post quickly received over 60,000 comments, many criticizing the marketing team’s lack of foresight. One commenter asked, “Is this an advertisement or a threat?” while another jokingly stated, “Paris must be on high alert by now.” The backlash prompted Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to condemn the ad as “stupidity,” and an inquiry was ordered by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
PIA’s Apology
In response to the public outcry, PIA spokesperson Abdullah Khan issued a statement. He clarified that the airline did not intend to evoke such negative associations and acknowledged the emotional impact the ad had caused. Khan further stated, “Unfortunately, this was blown out of proportion, with connotations and perceptions that were not intended.” The airline sincerely apologized for any distress caused by the ad.
Ongoing Controversy
Despite the apology, the controversial PIA ad remains live on the airline’s official X account. However, PIA’s return to European markets, including Paris, has been met with positive reactions. The flights to Paris are reportedly operating at over 95% capacity, showing that despite the marketing mishap, the airline’s services remain in demand.
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