Nearly Half PIA Fleet Still Grounded

The National Assembly’s Privatization Committee has raised concerns over the state of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and its service quality, revealing that 16 aircraft are currently grounded while the carrier operates only 17 to 18 planes. The committee questioned PIA’s performance despite tax relief and voiced concern over the absence of a required report on the national carrier.

During a briefing to the committee, officials stated that PIA’s aircraft have an average age of 21 to 22 years, with one Boeing Dreamliner recently acquired and another expected in January. Efforts to restore the grounded planes are underway, with repairs underway where suitable engines are available. PIA’s London flights have resumed daily, while services to Manchester and Birmingham are expected to commence soon.

Karachi-London flights are slated to begin in March 2027. Committee member Sahar Kamran criticized PIA’s service standards, citing better service from private airlines and PIA’s failure to meet performance expectations. She expressed disappointment over the committee’s lack of a required report on PIA. The committee also criticized several ministries for failing to respond to parliamentary questions and deliver requested information, further hindering their ability to address the issues at hand.