The government has once again delayed the long awaited privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The process, which was earlier planned for the first week of December, is now expected to begin in the final week of the month, according to the Privatisation Commission.
Sources inside PIA said that four major companies have qualified to take part in the bidding process. Those showing interest reportedly include Fauji Fertilizer, Habib Rafique, Younus Brothers, and Airblue. The winning bidder will also need to invest an additional Rs30–40 billion to revive the airline.
Officials confirmed that PIA’s name and branding will not be changed after privatisation. The plan also aims to expand the airline’s fleet from 18 to 38 aircraft within four years. However, the sale will only include PIA’s main offices in Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, and Rawalpindi. All domestic and international properties have been transferred to PIA Holdings Company, keeping them out of the transaction.
Despite operating with only 14–16 aircraft, PIA earned a pre-tax profit of over Rs11.5 billion in the first half of the current financial year. Last year, the airline posted earnings of Rs26.2 billion. The carrier continues to fly to key destinations such as Canada, the UK, France, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
PIA owns 32 aircraft, but half are grounded due to engine and spare parts shortages. If these planes were functional, officials believe the airline could have made an additional Rs2–3 billion this year. The airline currently flies to over 30 cities across Pakistan, with plans to expand its network to more than 40 cities by 2029.
The government’s renewed privatisation plan follows last year’s failed attempt, when only one bid Rs10 billion from Blue World City for a 60% stake was received. It fell far below the government’s Rs85 billion minimum price and was rejected. In April 2025, the Privatisation Commission reopened the process, inviting local and international investors to buy 51–100% of the airline.
