Airlines

PIA’s Pre-Privatization Plan: Selling Aircraft Spare Parts

PIA Reinstates Manchester and Paris Routes After EU Ban Lift

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In preparation for the long-anticipated privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the airline’s management has embarked on a significant move, announcing the sale of surplus aircraft spare parts worth millions of rupees.

These spare parts, spanning various categories of aircraft including Boeing 737, Boeing 707, Fokker, and Cessna, have been nestled in PIA’s inventory for several years, awaiting deployment. Now, with the impending privatization looming on the horizon, the management has opted to streamline resources by putting these aging aircraft spare parts up for sale.

Operating under the principle of “as-is-where-is,” PIA has issued a tender inviting interested parties to bid for the acquisition of these surplus spare parts. The deadline for submission of applications to participate in the tender process has been set for April 29, as confirmed by the PIA administration. This strategic move underscores the management’s commitment to optimizing assets and ensuring a smooth transition ahead of the privatization deadline set by the government.

Meanwhile, interest in acquiring PIA has been brewing from various quarters, with reports suggesting that three Gulf countries – the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar – have expressed keen interest in purchasing the cash-strapped airline.

Representatives from companies in these countries have reportedly engaged with the Pakistan government to explore potential deals for acquiring PIA. Briefings regarding the national flag carrier have also been provided to officials from the three Gulf nations, signaling a growing momentum towards privatization.

Airlines

PIA Reinstates Manchester and Paris Routes After EU Ban Lift

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to resume flights to Europe starting in January, beginning with Paris as its first destination.

The decision follows the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) removal of a long-standing ban on the airline. PIA’s inaugural flight to Paris is scheduled for January 10, with bookings opening on December 9.

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In an official statement, PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan confirmed that the first flight schedule has been approved, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s recovery efforts. The EU ban had previously cost PIA approximately Rs40 billion ($144 million) annually in lost revenue, compounding its financial struggles.

With European operations restarting, PIA is now setting its sights on the United Kingdom. The airline plans to seek approval from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to resume flights to major British cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

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These routes are anticipated to see high demand once necessary clearances are obtained. The lifting of the EU ban represents a key achievement for PIA as it works to rebuild its international network and regain its standing in the global aviation market.

By restoring flights to Europe and aiming for UK destinations, PIA is taking critical steps toward recovering lost ground and improving its financial outlook.