KARACHI: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) welcomed its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in Islamabad on Sunday, marking a new development in the national carrier’s efforts to modernise its fleet and expand international operations.
The aircraft arrived on flight PK-786 from London Heathrow Airport. It was leased from Norwegian airline Norse Atlantic Airways under an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) agreement, commonly known as a wet lease.
Under the arrangement, Norse Atlantic will provide the aircraft and crew and remain responsible for maintenance and insurance.
The aircraft was welcomed at Islamabad International Airport by PIA Chief Executive Officer Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat and his team.
Boost for Operations
The Aircraft Owners and Operators Association (AOOA) Pakistan described the Dreamliner’s induction as an important milestone for PIA and a significant step towards the airline’s revival.
In a statement, the organisation said the aircraft would strengthen PIA’s international operations and improve air connectivity between Pakistan and the United Kingdom. It added that the new aircraft would offer better travel facilities to overseas Pakistanis.
However, AOOA stressed that acquiring modern aircraft alone would not be enough to restore the airline’s standing, emphasising the need to improve service standards.
The organisation said punctuality and quality facilities should be among PIA’s priorities. It also called for a modern booking system and better customer service to help rebuild passenger confidence.
According to AOOA, service improvements must accompany the airline’s rebranding efforts.
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Focus on Revival
AOOA congratulated the new chief executive on the aircraft’s arrival and acknowledged the efforts of the outgoing CEO and his team.
It expressed hope that the new leadership would continue the airline’s revival, highlighting modern aircraft and staff training as important factors in its future growth.
The organisation also identified financial discipline and profitable routes as key requirements for PIA’s long-term success.
“The arrival of the Dreamliner marks a new beginning; the real goal is to restore PIA to its former glory,” AOOA Pakistan said.
Pakistan’s and PIA’s first Boeing 787-9 touches down in Islamabad, marking a significant milestone in our journey towards transformation, fulfilling our resolve for bringing newer fleet and providing greater flying comfort & better experience to our guests.
The event also imaugurates the resumption of PIA’s daily service to London Heathrow from Islamabad & Lahore.
— PIA (@Official_PIA) November 1, 2026
Privatisation and Expansion
In June, the Arif Habib Consortium formally took over PIA’s management through PIA Equity Ltd following the completion of the privatisation process.
The transaction involved a total investment commitment of Rs180 billion, including Rs125 billion in fresh capital for the airline and Rs55 billion payable to the government.
The new management identified fleet renewal, route expansion and service improvements as key investment priorities.
Earlier in October, PIA signed an agreement with Norway-based Norse Atlantic Airways to acquire two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners under an ACMI arrangement. The agreement was intended to increase the airline’s long-haul capacity and support expansion on routes to the United Kingdom.
London Flights Resume
PIA resumed direct flights to London in March after a six-year gap, initially operating three weekly flights from Islamabad and one from Lahore.
The resumption increased the airline’s weekly flights to the United Kingdom to seven, supporting its efforts to strengthen international connectivity and serve overseas Pakistanis.
