Businessman Arif Habib has clarified that the consortium has not yet made a final decision on acquiring the remaining 25% stake in Pakistan International Airlines.
The Arif Habib Consortium recently secured a 75% stake in the national carrier after winning the privatisation bid with an offer of Rs135 billion, marking a major milestone in Pakistan’s privatisation programme.
Although the consortium has expressed interest in purchasing the remaining shares, Habib said the matter remains under review. Speaking on a programme aired by ARY News, he explained that the group is currently focused on completing post-bid requirements and finalising a detailed business strategy.
Read: Fauji Fertiliser Joins Arif Habib Consortium in Rs135bn PIA Privatisation Deal
He said the new owners are working on a comprehensive turnaround plan and have already begun consultations with international aviation and financial advisers to assess options for reviving the airline.
“We have a 90-day review period,” Habib said. “During this time, we will examine all aspects carefully before deciding whether to acquire full ownership of PIA.”
Earlier reports suggested the consortium would likely buy the remaining 25% stake within three months. If completed, the transaction would make PIA a fully private entity and could generate an additional Rs45 billion for the government.
For now, Habib stressed that no commitment has been made and that any decision on full ownership will depend on the outcome of the ongoing evaluation process.
