CE of Pakistan's national airline steps down on order of top court

The CE of Pakistan's loss-making national airline stepped down Tuesday on the order of the Supreme Court, which has ruled his appointment was made in violation of the rules and regulations. The court order was the latest blow to Pakistan International Airlines, which was reported last year to be losing up to US$30m per month, as well as the latest sign of the Supreme Court taking a hands-on approach to govt-run businesses. PIA named Musharraf Rasool Cyan as its CE late last year, entrusting him with turning around the carrier's fortunes. A 3-member panel ruled Monday that Cyan neither met the criteria for the job, nor had any aviation experience. PIA's counsel argued aviation experience wasn't mandatory for the job, which the court rejected. <br/>