The privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is gaining momentum as representatives from pre-qualified companies, including Airblue, the Arif Habib Consortium, Fauji Fertiliser, and the Lucky Group Consortium, have begun site visits. Starting on Monday, these visits include inspections of PIA’s headquarters in Karachi and the Isphahani Hangar, along with briefings on air service agreements, route revenues, and employee structures.
The Privatisation Commission Board, during its 237th meeting, chaired by Muhammad Ali, Advisor to the Prime Minister on Privatisation, approved four bidders for due diligence. The government is offering between 51% and 100% of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) shares, including management control, in order to attract reliable investors.
Bidders will have access to a virtual data room and are expected to conduct their assessments over the next two months, with final bids anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2025. The government aims to secure investments of Rs 60–70 billion over five years for fleet expansion and operational upgrades, while retaining only 15% of the bid amount.
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The Cabinet Committee on Privatisation also authorised the transaction structure for the Roosevelt Hotel, with another key asset under review.
The PIA privatisation is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic restructuring under its $7 billion IMF program. If successful, it will be the country’s first major privatisation in two decades, signalling a commitment to fiscal reform and attracting foreign investment. The process aims to revive PIA’s operations, addressing longstanding financial and operational challenges.
