The controversial advertisement by Pakistan International Airlines, depicting a plane flying toward the Eiffel Tower to promote resuming flights to Paris, has drawn heavy criticism for its insensitivity. Social media users have likened the advertisement to the tragic events of 9/11, leading to calls for an investigation by the government.
PIA Faces Backlash Over Controversial Ad Featuring Eiffel Tower
PIA Faces Backlash Over Controversial Ad Featuring Eiffel Tower
Pakistan International Airlines' new advertisement sparks outrage as it draws comparisons to the 9/11 attacks.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has found itself in hot water after releasing an advertisement that features a plane heading towards the Eiffel Tower, aimed at promoting the airline’s renewed flights to Paris. Accompanied by the slogan "Paris, we're coming today," the ad has garnered more than 21 million views on social media platform X, where users have expressed outrage at its troubling implications.
Many online commentators have drawn parallels between PIA's advertisement and the infamous terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, in which planes were used to attack buildings in the US, leading to nearly 3,000 fatalities. One user questioned, "Is this an advertisement or a threat?" while others urged the airline to rethink its marketing strategies.
In response to the uproar, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced an investigation into the promotional material, which has not yet received a formal statement from PIA. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has also expressed his disapproval, echoing the public outcry.
Journalist Omar Quraishi took to X, questioning the airline's judgment and whether their management gave proper consideration to the historical significance of 9/11 when approving the ad. He remarked, “Did the airline management not vet this?"
PIA has a history of controversy. In 1979, it published an ad featuring a plane's shadow over the Twin Towers, and in 2017, it was criticized for a bizarre ritual where staff sacrificed a goat as an omen against bad luck following a significant aviation incident. The airline also faced backlash in 2019 when it instructed flight attendants to lose weight or face dismissal.
