Arif Habib consortium discusses cost cuts, modernisation in PIA turnaround plan

KARACHI: A high-level meeting of the Arif Habib Consortium was held to review and finalise plans for the revival and restructuring of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) following its acquisition.

Participants unanimously agreed to work towards restoring PIA as the country’s most profitable and reputable airline. The meeting was attended by representatives of the Fauji Foundation, Arif Habib Group, Lake City Holdings, City School Group, Fatima Group, and the PIA Board of Directors.

A comprehensive briefing was given on the airline’s current financial, administrative, and operational position, followed by an in-depth discussion on the future strategy.

Sources said the meeting focused on prioritising restructuring measures, reducing operational costs, improving efficiency, and aligning services with international standards. Participants stressed that restoring PIA’s reputation, ensuring punctuality, enhancing passenger facilities, and modernising the fleet are critical to the airline’s long-term success.

The consortium also discussed strengthening cooperation with international airlines, including potential partnerships in code sharing, training, maintenance, and network expansion, to help PIA regain a competitive position in the global aviation market.

The participants reiterated their commitment to running PIA on a fully professional basis, free from political interference, with all decisions guided strictly by sound business principles. Improving human resources, staff training, and the adoption of modern technology were identified as key pillars of the airline’s transformation.

Describing PIA as a national symbol, members of the Arif Habib Consortium pledged to utilise all available resources to make it one of the leading airlines in the region once again. The meeting concluded with an agreement to hold regular follow-up sessions to monitor progress and ensure timely implementation of the agreed objectives.