Adviser Confirms PIA Privatisation in Final Phase

ISLAMABAD: The privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has entered its final stages, according to Prime Minister’s Adviser on Privatisation Muhammad Ali. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Ali confirmed that the process is expected to be completed by the end of this year. The government aims to expedite the privatisation in the coming days.

Alongside Ali, Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari addressed the media, highlighting ongoing efforts to privatise other state-owned enterprises (SOEs). These include power distribution companies, where challenges related to assets and pensions are being addressed.

Four consortiums have shown interest in acquiring PIA, according to sources. These consortiums include Arif Habib Limited, Fauji Fertilizer Company, Airblue, and Lucky Group. However, they have requested the government to relax certain conditions in the bidding process to facilitate the deal. Despite these requests, officials have reassured the public that PIA’s name and its national flag will remain unchanged.

Meanwhile, PIA’s flight operations were disrupted after aircraft engineers launched a protest against the airline’s management. The Society of Aircraft Engineers of Pakistan (SAEP) intensified its dispute with PIA’s management, halting aircraft clearances. As a result, several domestic and international flights were grounded. The engineers announced they would not resume work until the PIA CEO addresses their concerns.

The CEO of PIA has instructed the Chief HR Officer to take strict action against the protesting engineers. Sources said the CEO emphasized that engineers responsible for disrupting flights must face disciplinary consequences. The conflict adds another layer of uncertainty to PIA’s already challenging privatisation process.

Read More : PIA Offers New Deal to Retired Employees Amid Privatization

, The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Holding Company has presented a new offer to retired employees as discussions continue over pension and medical benefits in the lead-up to the airline’s privatization.

A key meeting took place in Islamabad with representatives from the PIA Holding Company, Privatization Commission, State Life Insurance, and retired employees. The focus was to resolve issues related to post-privatization benefits.

While the parties discussed pension plans, the biggest point of contention remains the medical facilities. The Holding Company suggested outsourcing medical coverage to State Life Insurance, but the retired employees’ representatives requested a formal written proposal before agreeing to any changes.