Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Adrian Hamilton-Manns has officially assumed charge as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), marking a new development in the national flag carrier’s post-privatisation phase.
His appointment comes at a significant time for the airline, which has recently undergone a major ownership transition following its long-awaited privatisation and is embarking on a fleet modernisation and expansion programme.
The government completed the first financial closing of PIA’s privatisation transaction on June 29, 2026, formally transferring management control to an investor consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation. The consortium had emerged as the successful bidder in December 2025, securing a 75 per cent stake in the airline through a Rs135 billion bid.
Under the broader privatisation agreement, the investment commitment stood at Rs180 billion, including Rs55 billion payable to the government and Rs125 billion earmarked for fresh investment in the airline.
The leadership transition coincides with another significant development in PIA’s aviation operations: the arrival of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in Islamabad on November 1.
The aircraft, which arrived from London as flight PK786, has been acquired under an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) lease agreement with Norwegian carrier Norse Atlantic Airways. PIA has also entered into an arrangement for a second Dreamliner.
The induction of the wide-body aircraft is part of the airline’s efforts to modernise its fleet, strengthen international connectivity and expand long-haul operations, particularly on routes connecting Pakistan with the United Kingdom.
The developments surrounding new management, private-sector ownership and the induction of modern aircraft come as PIA seeks to rebuild its operational capacity, improve passenger services and strengthen its position in the international aviation market.
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