Pakistan looks to UK for Airbus, Rolls-Royce aircraft and engine arrangements for PIA

Profit by Pakistan Today reported that Pakistan and the United Kingdom discussed possible aircraft and engine arrangements for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), involving Airbus and Rolls-Royce. The talks took place at the Ministry of Commerce on Thursday between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott. Options raised included export credit backing and aircraft leasing, with leasing aimed at meeting the airline's immediate fleet needs while longer-term purchases are still under review.

Jam Kamal Khan said PIA's direct international routes gave the carrier a commercial edge, and he stressed that better service, reliability and fleet modernisation are needed to rebuild passenger confidence. Aviation sat alongside a wider agenda that reached farming and livestock, IT, medicine and life sciences, money-related services and minerals. The British side also outlined a long-term investment partnership that would not be legally binding, with the next bilateral Trade Dialogue meant to deliver concrete outcomes.

The minister also called for tariff rationalisation to improve competitiveness and encourage investment, while talks covered ways to market Pakistani pink salt, olive oil, textiles and surgical instruments overseas. Both sides also looked at using Pakistan's 80th anniversary in 2027 to showcase products and cooperation through business, education and cultural events. The talks ended with a commitment to develop practical proposals before the next trade dialogue.