ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is aiming to expand its fleet to improve flight operations, following the addition of another narrowbody Airbus 320 aircraft.
Earlier, PIA said it would resume flights to Europe in January, starting with Paris, after the European Union (EU) aviation regulator lifted a ban on the national flag carrier.
The EU aviation regulator imposed the ban on PIA in June 2020 over concerns regarding compliance with international aviation standards. The ban resulted in a $144 million loss in PIA’s revenue.
The national flag carrier in a statement said it has inducted an 11th Airbus A320, registered as AP-BOM, to its fleet.
The refurbished aircraft, equipped with new engines, would enhance PIA’s network and service quality, the airline’s spokesperson confirmed in a statement.
The Aircraft 320 has undergone extensive updates, including a new paint job and cabin refurbishment, symbolising PIA’s ongoing efforts to revitalise its fleet.
The spokesperson also announced plans to return several long-grounded Boeing 777 and ATR aircraft to service in the coming days.
Additionally, PIA has recently launched in-flight internet services on domestic routes, enhancing passenger convenience.
“Adhering to flight schedules and providing safe, high-quality products to passengers remains our top priority,” the spokesperson emphasised.
Minister for Privatisation Abdul Aleem Khan called the resumption of European flights “a very positive step” and a “significant milestone” in the national carrier’s privatization process.
PIA’s privatisation efforts have faced challenges, including a previous bidding process that did not meet expectations.
“The process for the privatisation of PIA will be started afresh with the hiring of a new Financial Advisor,” an official from the Privatisation Commission stated.
The resumption of flights to Europe is expected to bolster PIA’s case for privatisation, enhancing its value in the market.
