Understanding Flight Record Data in Pakistan
Flight Record Data, also known as Passenger Movement Information (PMI), are detailed logs maintained by airlines, The FIA and and civil aviation authorities that document passenger travel details. These records act as a historical log of an individual’s air travel within a specific timeframe.
In Pakistan, this information can be obtained for various reasons (usually as a form of evidence), but it is not publicly available. In this article we will address the uses and legalities of such data, and when it may be necessary to apply for it.
What is a Flight Record?
A flight record is a comprehensive record of a specific flight. It typically includes the following details:
- Flight Details: Airline name, flight number, departure and arrival airports, date, and scheduled times.
- Passenger Information: Passenger name, passport number (if applicable), and booking details.
- Travel Details: Seat number, boarding status (boarded/not boarded), and any relevant remarks.
Applications of Flight Records in Pakistan
Flight records hold value in various situations:
- Verifying Whereabouts: In legal proceedings, flight records can be used to verify an individual’s presence or absence at a specific location during a given time. This can be crucial for establishing alibis in criminal matters or investigating travel history.
- Immigration Matters: Flight records can support immigration applications by providing documented proof of travel dates and destinations.
- Missing Person Cases: Authorities may utilize flight records to trace the movements of missing individuals, potentially narrowing down search areas.
- Fraud Investigations: In cases of suspected fraudulent travel claims or insurance misuse, flight records can provide concrete evidence of actual travel patterns.
Obtaining Flight Records in Pakistan
While airlines may maintain their own passenger information, obtaining official flight records in Pakistan typically involves a request to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Authorized Request: Flight records are not publicly accessible. A formal request must be submitted, typically by law enforcement agencies, legal representatives, or individuals with a legitimate interest, such as next-of-kin in missing person cases.
- Documentation Required: The request should clearly state the purpose for obtaining the records, along with details of the individual (like their Passport and/or CNIC number) and the desired travel timeframe. Supporting documentation like a FIR, police report or court order may be required depending on the case.
- Processing Time: Processing times can vary depending on the complexity of the request and the workload of the FIA.
When to Use Flight Records
Flight records become valuable tools in situations where travel history plays a critical role. Here are some instances where utilizing flight records might be relevant:
- Civil or Criminal Lawsuits: Flight records can be used as evidence to establish timelines, alibis, or disprove an individual’s claimed whereabouts during a specific period.
- Missing Persons: Authorities investigating missing person cases can leverage flight records to identify a missing individual’s last known travel movements.
- Business Disputes: In cases involving travel-related expenses or allegations of unauthorized travel, flight records can provide verifiable data.
- Accident Investigation: In the unfortunate event of an air accident, flight records provide valuable data for investigators to reconstruct the events leading up to the incident.
- Cargo Tracking: For air cargo shipments, flight records provide a detailed log of the transportation journey, aiding in tracking and logistics management.
Important Note: Obtaining flight records without proper authorization is a violation of privacy laws in Pakistan. Always follow the legal channels and seek assistance from authorized personnel or lawyers in Pakistan when requesting access to flight records.
It’s important to note that obtaining flight records typically requires a legitimate reason and may involve legal procedures. However, when used appropriately, flight records can shed light on travel history and provide valuable insights in various situations.
If you would like more information on how to use Flight Record Data in Pakistan or legal ways in obtaining this kind of evidence, feel free to fill out our form below or drop us a message on WhatsApp.