ISLAMABAD: The government has taken a significant step forward in the privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) by announcing that it will invite Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from both local and international investors starting from April 24, 2025.
According to official sources, investors will be given a minimum of one month to submit their EOIs. Under this initiative, the government plans to offer between 51% to 100% of PIA’s shares for sale. Authorities have assured that employee rights will be safeguarded and that the current service structure will remain intact.
The privatization process was initially launched last year but ended in a deadlock, stalling progress at that time.
PIA’s assets and overall valuation will be done by July 2025. It will evaluate the submitted EOIs by September and aims to complete the final phase of privatization by December 2025.
To ensure that only qualified and committed investors take part, the government is enforcing stricter eligibility criteria. Prospective investor companies will be required to demonstrate their credibility through multi-year financial records.
With the airline resuming its operations to various European destinations, PIA has become increasingly appealing to international investors. In addition to domestic interest, airlines from the Gulf region and a prominent Turkish airline are also expected to submit EOIs.
To streamline investment and eliminate financial liabilities, the government has adopted a “Clean PIA” model, under which it has taken over all of PIA’s debts. The federal cabinet has already given its approval to the updated privatization roadmap based on recommendations from the Privatization Commission.
Meanwhile, PIA is also planning to launch a direct flight route connecting Karachi and Chitral, further enhancing its domestic network.
Comments are closed.