Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has confirmed that its national identity will remain unchanged even after privatization, easing public concerns about the future of the country’s flag carrier. Government officials and aviation industry insiders have assured that the airline will continue to operate under the name “PIA,” and its iconic logo will also be retained.
According to officials, while new investors will be given full authority to introduce administrative, operational, and financial reforms, the airline’s historical and national character will be protected. An aviation insider stated, “The name PIA will not be changed, and the logo will remain the same. The airline’s national significance will be safeguarded despite the change in ownership.”
On Tuesday, the Arif Habib-led consortium officially acquired 75 percent shares of Pakistan International Airlines after submitting a successful bid of Rs 135 billion. The Lucky Consortium finished second with an offer of Rs 134 billion. As part of the agreement, the government will receive Rs 10.2 billion in immediate cash.
Officials described the deal as a landmark step, calling it “the first major privatization of its kind in Pakistan in the last two decades.” Authorities believe the move will reduce the financial burden on taxpayers, with estimates suggesting annual savings of around Rs 35 billion in subsidies and operational losses.
Another official emphasized that reforms would focus on efficiency and service quality, adding, “New management can make tough decisions, but PIA’s brand and identity as the national airline will stay intact.”
The assurance aims to balance modernization with heritage, signaling that while PIA enters a new phase under private management, it will continue to represent Pakistan in the skies with its long standing name and identity.
