Pakistan’s effort to privatize Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has faced another delay. The process, originally set for early December, is now expected to begin in the last week of the month. The government remains committed, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosting all pre-qualified bidders today to reinforce an investor-friendly environment.
Four companies have qualified so far, including Fauji Fertilizer, Habib Rafique, Younus Brothers, and Airblue. Winning bidders must invest an additional Rs30–40 billion. The sale covers only PIA’s four main offices; domestic and international properties are excluded and transferred to PIA Holdings Company. PIA’s name and branding will remain unchanged.
The airline plans to grow its fleet from 18 to 38 aircraft within four years. Despite operating only 14–16 planes, it earned Rs11.5 billion pre-tax in the first half of this financial year. PIA serves over 30 cities domestically and on key international routes, aiming for 40 cities by 2029. The renewed privatization follows last year’s failed attempt, when the only bid fell far below the government’s floor price
