Abdul Aleem Khan pushes for PIA privatization

The federal government of Pakistan has decided to extend the deadline for the submission of an Expression of Interest (EoI) for the privatization of the state-owned carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The deadline has been extended by 15 days, with the new deadline set for May 18th. This decision follows the interest shown by 10 local and international companies in the privatization process of PIA.

It has been confirmed that there will be no further extensions granted for the submission of EOI for PIA. Additionally, three local airlines are considering forming a consortium with international companies for the privatization of PIA. Federal Minister for Privatisation, Abdul Aleem Khan, emphasized the importance of privatizing loss-making institutions like PIA, Pakistan Steel Mills, and electricity distribution companies to alleviate the burden on the economy.

Minister Khan highlighted that the national carrier, PIA, holds a significant market share compared to other airlines in Pakistan. He assured that the privatization process will be transparent and open to the media, with a focus on adding new planes to the PIA fleet to enhance profitability. Khan also reassured PIA employees that they will not face any issues due to the privatization process.

The government's aim to privatize PIA by June this year, as directed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, underscores the urgency to streamline the formalities for the privatization of the national carrier.