Sarwar revealed the startling news about the ‘fake’ pilots while presenting a provisional inquiry report in the National Assembly of Pakistan about the recent PIA plane crash in Karachi, reports Gulf News.

“Pakistan has 860 active pilots, which includes PIA, Serene Air and Air Blue pilots as well. The inquiry which was initiated in February 2019 showed that 262 pilots did not give the exam themselves and asked someone else to sit for exam on their behalf,” the minister was quoted as saying by Gulf News.

He said they have found out during the investigations that pilots with ‘fake’ licences did not even have proper flying experience.

The 40 per cent 'fake' licence holders also include hundreds of pilots who are not 'active flyers.' 

Sarwar said: “Pilots were also appointed on political basis, unfortunately. Merit was ignored while appointing pilots."

He said an inquiry into the matter has been initiated.

Pakistan witnessed a deadly incident recently when 97 people died when PIA flight PK8303 crashed in a densely populated area in Karachi city last month.