PIA Privatization: 75% Shares to Be Auctioned; Name and Theme to Remain Unchanged

Islamabad (Qudrat Daily) — Four companies have qualified for the privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), where 75% of the national carrier’s shares will be auctioned. A key condition set for the privatization is that PIA’s name and theme will not be altered after the transaction. Under the proposed business plan, the airline’s fleet will be expanded from 18 to 38 operational aircraft within four years.

The development came during a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to review PIA’s affairs. The Prime Minister directed authorities to ensure that all privatization stages are completed swiftly and transparently. He also instructed officials to increase the number of airworthy aircraft in PIA’s fleet and ensure timely departures of flights.

Officials briefed the meeting on the privatization plan, informing that four parties have been pre-qualified and the auction will be conducted soon. It was reiterated that the branding of PIA—including its name and theme—must remain intact after privatization.

According to the business plan presented, PIA currently operates flights to over 30 cities, and by 2029 the airline’s services will be expanded to more than 40 destinations.

The meeting was attended by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Advisor on Privatization Muhammad Ali, and senior government officials.