Web desk: The bidding process for the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially concluded, with the Arif Habib Group emerging as the winning bidder on Tuesday.
However, many are wondering what it means for the current employees of PIA.
What it means for PIA employees
According to PIA officials, employees are expected to retain their jobs for at least one year following the takeover. Additionally, the full transition process is expected to take approximately three months.
Key operational staff, including cockpit crews, engineering teams, and cabin crew, will continue in their current roles.
However, most administrative, business, and sales positions may see more changes. Political appointments are expected to be phased out.
Arif Habib stated that the expertise and experience of PIA staff will be utilised when talking to the media.
The airline’s fleet is currently at 38 aircraft. It is expected to expand to 65 under the new management.
While branding changes are not planned immediately, according to official PIA sources. The management and operations will undergo restructuring.
Officials also noted that some uncertainty still remains.
Arif Habib
On December 23, 2025, the Arif Habib consortium won the privatisation bidding of PIA with a record-breaking bid of PKR 135 billion.
Arif Habib, when talking to the media, said the move will bring fresh investment into PIA. He added that the airline to provide better services to passengers.
He also stated that they plan to benefit from the skills and experience of PIA employees.
“This transparent privatisation will also boost confidence among both local and international investors,” he said.
Arif Habib emphasised that the consortium aims to restore PIA’s former reputation and increase trust among customers and investors. “Today is a victory for Pakistan,” he said, adding that the airline’s good days are set to return.
He also highlighted that new investment will open opportunities for employment and create new avenues for economic growth.
Arif Habib is a prominent Pakistani businessman and philanthropist. He serves as the Chief Executive of Arif Habib Corporation Limited, the holding company for one of Pakistan’s largest business conglomerates.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also hailed the privatisation of PIA as a transparent and exemplary process. He congratulated the nation and expressed confidence in the airline’s revival.
PIA bidding
The Arif Habib Group won the privatisation of PIA and acquired 75 per cent of its shares for Rs135 billion.
The government will receive Rs10.2 billion in cash, while the rest of the amount will be reinvested into the airline.
This is the first major privatisation of a large state-owned company in two decades and is expected to save taxpayers around Rs35 billion every year.
Officials said the consortium will now invest in PIA to revive its operations and restore financial stability.
