PIA's first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner arrives in Islamabad

Pakistan International Airlines' (PIA) inaugural Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner landed in Islamabad from London on Sunday, marking the first time a Pakistani airline has incorporated this modern aircraft into its fleet. The carrier, which previously operated 12 Boeing 777 jets, 15 Airbus A320 planes, and five ATRs, is the first to add a Boeing 787-9.

PIA's Chief Executive Aamir Hayat, along with his team, greeted the Dreamliner upon its arrival. This addition is part of PIA's strategy to modernize its fleet and bolster its international network. The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, a long-range, twin-engine plane capable of seating up to 325 passengers, boasts modern amenities such as in-flight entertainment and a spacious, comfortable cabin.

PIA aims to offer international-standard travel facilities and enhance passengers' air travel experience through this advanced aircraft. The airline secured an ACMI lease agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways last month to acquire two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, with the first arriving in Islamabad. This move is expected to bolster PIA's direct long-haul flights from Pakistan to the United Kingdom, supporting operations between various UK and Pakistani locations.

The decision comes amid the government's clarification that it will not purchase any aircraft for PIA, following reports of a federal minister arranging funding for the airline. PIA underwent privatization in December through an auction, with a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation Limited winning 75% of shares for Rs135 billion.