Pakistan Aviation

The privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) represents a landmark reform, offering a potentially high-reward commercial opportunity for a legacy national carrier with a revitalized growth plan. With full management control transferred to a private consortium and no government “golden share,” U.S. companies now have a rare opportunity to shape fleet strategy, operational systems, and international standards from the ground up—positioning themselves as long-term partners in PIA’s revival and regional expansion.

The Government of Pakistan recently privatized 75% of PIA shares to a local, Pakistani private consortium, opening a rare opportunity in a major national carrier that has historically been loss-making. The winning consortium is led by Arif Habib Corporation, one of Pakistan’s blue-chip companies, gaining 75% of management control as of January 2026.  The Government of Pakistan, does not own a “golden share,” will not have any operational or management control over the airline, and expects to conclude the transaction of the remaining 25% share it owns during 2026. PIA will retain its name, branding, and legacy identity post-privatization.

For U.S. stakeholders, engaging with Arif Habib Corporation presents a meaningful opportunity to influence outcomes as the owners seek to recapitalize the airline, bring it up to international standards, and participate in a major aviation turnaround in South Asia.

Strategic prospects for U.S. Stakeholders:
o    Aerospace/Aircraft Suppliers: Aircraft manufacturers, simulators, and related equipment suppliers, lessors, or leasing firms could capitalize on PIA’s fleet expansion ambitions. According to the Chairman of the winning consortium, PIA would need a minimum of 25 to 30 aircraft to operate sustainably and support expansion plans, though the timeline for achieving this target will depend on strategic decisions taken by the new management.
o    Fleet Modernization, MRO, Ground Handling, and Leasing Opportunities: PIA’s turnaround will likely require aircraft upgrades, leasing solutions, maintenance/repair/overhaul (MRO) services, ground handling and airport operations infrastructure, and aviation technology—creating strong demand for U.S. aircraft manufacturers, lessors, avionics suppliers, and MRO providers.
o    Digital Transformation & Operational Efficiency Solutions: As a formerly state-run carrier transitioning to private management, PIA would need modern ticketing reservation systems, revenue management, crew scheduling, weather, irregular operations, cybersecurity, data analytics, customer service, loyalty program management, and operational software—areas where U.S. IT, aviation-tech, and SaaS companies can play a pivotal role.
o    Business Plan & Growth Prospects:
Under the Pakistan government’s business plan, PIA’s fleet would more than double — from 18 operational aircraft today to 38 by 2029. Concurrently, its route network would expand from serving more than 30 Pakistani and international cities to over 40 by 2029. This positions PIA for significant growth in South Asia and, potentially in markets with high Pakistani diaspora connectivity, including North America.

The U.S. Commercial Service in Pakistan offers standard as well as customized services and programs to help U.S. businesses succeed in the Pakistan market. This includes help in facilitating contact with the new owners of PIA to assist U.S. firms in conducting exploratory sales and partnering opportunities. For more information regarding programs, services, local trade events, and opportunities, U.S. firms may contact the U.S. Commercial Service Pakistan team at office.pakistan@trade.gov  or reach out to your nearest local U.S. Commercial Service office in the United States.