Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is planning to acquire 16 new Boeing aircraft as part of its fleet modernisation strategy to expand operations and improve passenger services.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi during his visit to Boeing’s headquarters in Washington, held talks with Boeing Global President Brendan Nelson.
The meeting was also attended by PIA’s new management team, highlighting the government’s renewed efforts to modernise the national carrier and enhance its operational capabilities.
During the discussions, both sides agreed to work towards finalising the aircraft acquisition deal at the earliest opportunity.
Naqvi thanked Brendan Nelson for assuring full cooperation in expediting the procurement process for PIA’s new fleet. He also commended Boeing’s leadership in the global aerospace industry and recognised the company’s significant contribution to aircraft manufacturing.
The proposed purchase of 16 Boeing aircraft is expected to play a key role in strengthening PIA’s fleet, increasing operational efficiency, and improving services for passengers.
Earlier, the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) selected former Ethiopian Airlines Chief Executive Officer Tewolde Gebremariam as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
According to officials of the PIA, the appointment is subject to mandatory security clearances before it is formally announced.
Tewolde is regarded as one of the aviation industry’s most experienced executives, having overseen the transformation of Ethiopian Airlines into Africa’s largest carrier during his tenure.
His appointment comes after the completion of the first phase of PIA’s privatisation, under which management control of the national airline was transferred to a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation after all conditions of the Share Purchase and Subscription Agreement (SPSA) were met.
As part of the initial transaction, the consortium paid Rs10 billion to the government for the acquisition and injected Rs80 billion into PIA to strengthen the airline’s financial position.
Overall, the consortium has committed Rs180 billion, including Rs55 billion for the purchase of a 75% stake in the airline and Rs125 billion in fresh capital.
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