Government sets three-month timeline for PIA privatisation, minister assures investors

ISLAMABAD: Minister for Privatisation and Investment, Abdul Aleem Khan, announced on Thursday that the government aims to complete the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines Corporation Ltd (PIACL) within three months.

He said the government has addressed the concerns raised by potential buyers and was ready to implement necessary modifications to facilitate the sale.

Furthermore, he said a comprehensive new roadmap is being formulated to enhance the attractiveness of PIA’s privatisation and expressed confidence that all phases of the privatisation process will be finalised within the stipulated three-month timeframe.

“There is no doubt that the airline has the potential to become profitable once again,” he asserted, noting that this privatisation effort would be more effective and viable, thereby positively impacting the overall transaction outcome.

PIA has good news for Pakistanis flying home for Eid

The Minister also indicated that renewed interest from investors is anticipated, particularly due to the recent introduction of PIA flights to Europe, which has made the investment environment more appealing.

He revealed plans to initiate flights to the UK within three months, attributing this development to strategic measures aimed at enhancing PIA’s profitability.

Khan stressed that PIA remained the preferred airline for the 240 million Pakistanis and expressed optimism about expanding flight operations to the United States and Far East in subsequent phases.

He promised that the government would work diligently to restore PIA’s reputation and revitalise the airline to its former glory. With the actions being taken, he believes that PIA is on a path to returning to profitability and enhancing its credibility in the aviation market.