This article was originally published in Jetstream Magazine.

For many aviation enthusiasts, loyalty to an airline is shaped by childhood memories: a first flight, a favorite aircraft type, or a unique connection to one’s heritage. For Haseeb Khan, that loyalty runs deeper than nostalgia. It is more personal, inherited, and always worn proudly in his hometown of Toronto.

Family Ties

Haseeb’s passion for aviation began long before he started working at the airport. His father also worked at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport (YYZ), and planespotting trips were a regular part of his childhood. Amidst the diverse traffic that Pearson received, Haseeb’s attention was drawn to one airline in particular: Pakistan International Airlines.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), once seen as the pride of Pakistan, has had a turbulent history. Once regarded among the world’s greatest airlines, the carrier’s reputation has suffered over the years at the hands of corruption and mismanagement. 

Despite these challenges, its history and legacy continue to hold special places in the hearts of many. For Haseeb, his emotional connection to PIA runs in the family. His grandfather, Sheikh Hameed Ahmed Rasheed – affectionately called “Dr. Rasheed” – had spent more than 25 years working for the airline, serving across multiple departments during some of its most formative decades. 

Unlock the full story.

Subscribe to keep reading, or read for free with ads (metered).

Learn More or Log in