Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is searching for a new Chief Executive Officer as the national carrier moves through a major restructuring phase following its transition to private management. The airline’s management has reportedly completed interviews with aviation professionals and is now in the final stages of selecting its next chief.
The search follows the earlier selection of former Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde Gebremariam, who was initially shortlisted to lead PIA. However, Gebremariam subsequently joined Air India as its CEO, leaving PIA to continue looking for a new candidate.
PIA entered a new phase on June 29, 2026, when management control was transferred to an investor consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation following the completion of the first stage of its privatisation.
The consortium acquired a 75% stake, while the government retained the remaining 25%. The privatisation agreement also involves significant fresh investment in the airline.
PIA’s new management is planning to expand the airline’s fleet and develop additional international routes as part of its post-privatisation strategy. The carrier has been working to accelerate the delivery of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with shareholders saying the first five aircraft could arrive during the first half of 2027.
Alongside fleet plans, restructuring is already taking place across areas including supply chain, safety, flight operations and branding. The airline is also recruiting professionals for several senior positions as it seeks to strengthen its organisational structure.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is searching for a new Chief Executive Officer as the national carrier moves through a major restructuring phase following its transition to private management.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is searching for a new Chief Executive Officer as the national carrier moves through a major restructuring phase following its transition to private management. The airline’s management has reportedly completed interviews with aviation professionals and is now in the final stages of selecting its next chief.
The search follows the earlier selection of former Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde Gebremariam, who was initially shortlisted to lead PIA. However, Gebremariam subsequently joined Air India as its CEO, leaving PIA to continue looking for a new candidate.
PIA entered a new phase on June 29, 2026, when management control was transferred to an investor consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation following the completion of the first stage of its privatisation.
The consortium acquired a 75% stake, while the government retained the remaining 25%. The privatisation agreement also involves significant fresh investment in the airline.
PIA’s new management is planning to expand the airline’s fleet and develop additional international routes as part of its post-privatisation strategy. The carrier has been working to accelerate the delivery of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with shareholders saying the first five aircraft could arrive during the first half of 2027.
Alongside fleet plans, restructuring is already taking place across areas including supply chain, safety, flight operations and branding. The airline is also recruiting professionals for several senior positions as it seeks to strengthen its organisational structure.
