ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has increased its operational fleet as part of efforts to improve services following privatization.
The national airline has expanded its operational fleet from 15 to approximately 17 aircraft. Officials also announced plans to add more aircraft in the coming months.
The developments were shared during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Privatization.
PIA Expands Fleet With New Aircraft
A general manager informed the committee about the airline’s ongoing fleet expansion plans.
According to the official, one Boeing 787 Dreamliner had already arrived in Pakistan.
A second Dreamliner was scheduled to arrive on December 15, 2026.
The airline has also arranged two additional aircraft, approximately seven to eight years old.
These aircraft are expected to join the operational fleet in January 2027.
The expansion aims to improve flight availability and strengthen the airline’s domestic and international operations.
Airline Works to Restore Grounded Aircraft
Officials also provided updates on efforts to return grounded aircraft to service.
At the time of privatization, the airline had 15 operational aircraft and 16 grounded planes.
The number of grounded aircraft has since decreased to 14.
The airline is working to restore more aircraft as engines and other essential equipment become available.
Officials said necessary parts and equipment are being obtained from international suppliers.
Restoring these aircraft could help increase flight capacity and improve operational efficiency.
Direct Karachi-London Flights Planned for March 2027
Secretary Privatization Usman Bajwa also discussed the airline’s international operations during the committee meeting.
He said passenger feedback on flights to the United Kingdom had been encouraging.
Travelers particularly appreciated flight schedules and the quality of meals provided during their journeys.
The airline is also preparing to expand its international route network.
Direct flights between Karachi and London are planned to begin in March 2027.
The proposed service would provide another travel option for passengers flying between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
Committee Raises Concerns Over Ticket Prices
The committee also discussed the airline’s ticket prices compared with competing carriers.
During the meeting, officials acknowledged concerns about relatively higher airfares.
The general manager confirmed that ticket prices were sometimes Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 3,000 higher than competitors’ fares.
The discussion highlighted the importance of competitive pricing alongside improvements in airline services.
Fleet Expansion Expected to Improve Operations
The latest developments reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen the national airline’s operational capacity.
Additional aircraft and the restoration of grounded planes could help improve flight availability.
The planned international route expansion may also provide passengers with more travel options.However, the successful implementation of these plans will depend on aircraft availability and operational preparations.
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The airline is expected to continue its fleet restoration and expansion efforts in the coming months.
