Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set for a significant revival under its new management led by renowned businessman Arif Habib, who announced plans to revamp the national carrier while exploring investment opportunities in the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC). The consortium aims to improve service quality, expand the fleet, resume profitable routes, and strengthen operational capacity.

Speaking to the Council of Energy and Economy Journalists (CEEJ) in Karachi, Arif Habib emphasized that the new management will bring in aviation professionals and enhance existing staff capabilities. The consortium managing PIA includes Fauji Fertilizer with 25 percent, Arif Habib and Fatima Group another 25 percent, and Citi School and AKD holding the remaining 25 percent. The group’s expertise lies in forming consortia and attracting both local and foreign investment.

The management plans to gradually increase PIA’s fleet by 38 aircraft and hire additional pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and quality assurance personnel. Currently, PIA employs around 6,500 permanent and 2,500 contractual staff, down from 13,000 when the airline operated a full fleet. Training programs and performance improvement plans will be implemented for existing employees, with zero tolerance for negligence in safety, passenger service, and punctuality.

Resuming domestic and international flights is a key part of the revival strategy. Long-haul routes to Canada, the United States, and Europe will be restored, reducing travel times for overseas Pakistanis and offering competitive fares compared to connecting flights. The airline will also continue serving pilgrims for Hajj, Umrah, and other religious tourism, which remains a profitable segment. Expanding the cargo business is also on the agenda to support trade and generate premium returns.

Arif Habib highlighted that the consortium has committed Rs. 132 billion for the airline, including investments in aircraft induction and infrastructure improvements. PIA’s current liabilities and maintenance expenses for grounded aircraft are estimated at up to Rs. 70 billion. The management believes favorable conditions, including stable rupee rates, lower oil prices, and reduced markup, make the aviation sector more conducive for investment.

Beyond aviation, the consortium is exploring stakes in the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation, which is performing better than PIA. PNSC plans to expand operations through additional vessels, signaling growth opportunities for state-owned enterprises.

While the turnaround is expected to take time, the new management is committed to restoring PIA’s past glory and making the national carrier profitable once again, combining strategic investments, operational efficiency, and professional leadership.