Pakistan International Airlines announces crew recruitment and fleet expansion

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to recruit new cabin crew as part of a broader effort to expand its fleet and prepare for the acquisition of new aircraft. This recruitment drive follows a period of shrinking operations and significant financial losses, which exceeded US$2.8 billion.

The airline is undergoing a major transition following a privatization process. Management control has been transferred to a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation, which has already paid Rs10 billion (US$36 million) to the government and injected Rs80 billion (US$288 million) in fresh capital into the carrier. Additionally, former Ethiopian Airlines chief Tewolde GebreMariam has reportedly been appointed as the new CEO, pending final security clearances.

As the airline undergoes these reforms, public debate has emerged regarding the level of government support provided to PIA. Critics and experts have questioned whether the debt restructuring, regulatory relief, and financial assistance granted to the national carrier constitute special treatment not afforded to other private businesses in the country.