GM tells NA panel: PIA has started rebuilding its fleet following privatisation

Pakistan International Airlines is adding aircraft as it works to restore capacity after privatisation, Business Recorder reported. One Boeing 787 Dreamliner has arrived, a second was expected on December 15, 2026, and two aircraft around seven to eight years old are due in January 2027. The airline’s operational fleet has risen from 15 aircraft at privatisation to 17-18, while 14 remain grounded.

PIA plans to return more grounded aircraft to service when engines and other resources become available, then broaden its routes, including direct Karachi-London flights from March 2027. A Privatisation Ministry official said passenger feedback on UK services was encouraging, while the airline’s general manager acknowledged that tickets can sometimes cost Rs2,000 to Rs3,000 more than competitors’ fares. The committee also heard that increased refinery margins had contributed to higher jet fuel costs; separately, PPP members complained that government lawmakers were absent and committee business lacked quorum.