Pakistan International Airlines is set to enter a new phase as its new owners have announced plans to improve operations, expand the fleet, and enhance the overall passenger experience.
On December 23, a Pakistani consortium led by the Arif Habib Group acquired a 75 percent stake in Pakistan International Airlines for Rs135 billion, equivalent to about 482 million dollars. The deal values the airline at Rs180 billion, or around 643 million dollars. This privatization is seen as one of Pakistan’s most ambitious efforts to revive the national carrier after years of financial losses exceeding 2.8 billion dollars.
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PIA was once counted among Asia’s leading airlines but gradually declined due to political interference, overstaffing, operational weaknesses, and mounting debt. In 2020, a pilot licensing scandal resulted in flight bans by aviation authorities in the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Although restrictions from the EU and the UK have since been lifted, the airline is still working to recover from the long-term impact of these setbacks.
The Arif Habib Group has shared a clear revival plan focused on restoring PIA’s image and improving efficiency. Planned measures include refurbishing aircraft cabins, upgrading seating, modernising in-flight entertainment systems, and improving check-in counters and maintenance processes. The group also intends to add new aircraft to the fleet and place strong emphasis on maintaining timely flight schedules to improve reliability.
Arif Habib, head of the consortium, said the goal is to provide passengers with a modern, comfortable, and safe travel experience while also ensuring long-term financial stability for the airline.
Aviation experts believe that privatization, combined with these planned improvements, could help PIA regain its former standing and become competitive again in regional and international aviation markets. Many see this transition as a key step toward rebuilding trust and confidence in Pakistan’s national airline.
