PIA Privatization: Arif Habib Confident Airline Will Turn Profitable in First Year
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is expected to become a profitable company within its first year under private management, according to Arif Habib, Chairman of the Arif Habib Group. Speaking to the media after assuming management control of the national carrier, he outlined the company’s strategy to strengthen operations, expand the fleet, and invest in key infrastructure as part of the PIA Privatization process.
PIA Privatization Aims for First-Year Profitability
Arif Habib expressed confidence that PIA Privatization would enable the airline to achieve profitability within its first year of private management. He stated that the airline has strong operational potential and emphasized that PIA has never experienced an operating loss.
According to him, the transition to private management is expected to improve operational efficiency while creating a solid foundation for long-term growth.
Fleet Expansion Planned Under PIA Privatization
Discussing future expansion plans, Arif Habib said PIA currently owns 30 aircraft, with 18 currently operational. He added that four to five aircraft from the existing fleet can be restored and returned to service in the near future.
The airline also plans to induct five wide-body aircraft as part of its modernization strategy. Over the next five years, the overall fleet is expected to grow to 60 aircraft, significantly increasing PIA’s operational capacity.
Investment in Karachi Engineering Facility
Arif Habib highlighted PIA’s engineering facility in Karachi as one of the airline’s strongest assets. He said substantial investment will be made to further enhance its technical capabilities and improve maintenance operations.
The planned upgrades are intended to strengthen engineering services and support the airline’s long-term operational requirements.
Senior Management Recruitment Underway
As part of the restructuring process, recruitment for senior management positions is currently in progress. Arif Habib said the hiring process is expected to be completed within the next one to one-and-a-half months.
He also reaffirmed that, under the terms of the privatization agreement, no employees will be laid off during the first year of private management.
Growth Strategy for the National Carrier
Arif Habib said the airline has significant growth potential and believes the ongoing reforms under PIA Privatization will position the carrier for sustainable expansion.
With planned investments in fleet modernization, engineering infrastructure, and management, PIA aims to strengthen its operations while pursuing profitability during its first year under private ownership.
