Asian – Dispatch

Arif Habib Group has announced plans to acquire the remaining 25 percent government stake in Pakistan International Airlines, completing the airline’s full privatisation. The move aims to give the consortium operational control, streamline decision-making, expand the fleet, and improve passenger services across domestic and international routes.

Group CEO Shahid Ali Habib stated that the acquisition will be completed after final government approval, expected in April, with payments for the remaining shares scheduled within the next 12 months. The announcement follows the consortium’s purchase of 75 percent of PIA last December for approximately Rs135 billion.

The remaining 25 percent shares are estimated at around Rs45 billion, with a deadline for acquisition set at the end of April. Officials said full private ownership would free PIA from government oversight, allowing faster operational, strategic, and financial decision-making to boost competitiveness in the aviation sector.

Privatisation is part of the government’s broader plan to restructure the loss-making airline, improve operational efficiency, enhance passenger safety, modernise service standards, and expand PIA’s aircraft fleet to meet growing demand. This move reflects a commitment to strengthening the national carrier through private sector management.

The consortium includes major corporate partners such as Fatima Fertiliser, Fauji Fertiliser Company, Lake City, and a partnership involving The City School and AKD Group. Their combined investment demonstrates confidence in PIA’s potential under private ownership and corporate governance.

Analysts say full privatisation could make PIA more agile, profitable, and globally competitive. Observers expect the acquisition to accelerate restructuring, attract international partnerships, and enhance the airline’s overall service quality, marking a historic milestone in Pakistan’s aviation industry.

Source: Daily Times