PIA Privatisation Process to Be Broadcast Live, Says PM Shehbaz

PTBP Web Desk

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to complete transparency and merit in the ongoing PIA privatisation process, declaring that the crucial bidding scheduled for December 23 will be televised live across national media channels. The move aims to rebuild public trust in the long-delayed restructuring of Pakistan’s national flag carrier.

The announcement was made during a detailed session held at the Prime Minister House, attended by key federal ministers, senior officials, and representatives of all local and international business groups participating in the bidding. The session was also joined by major stakeholders from the aviation, finance, and investment sectors.

Representatives of the bidding entities—both domestic and foreign—were also in attendance. Their presence reinforced the government’s stance of maintaining an open, professional, and accountable approach throughout the PIA privatisation process.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that the government is committed to reviving PIA’s long-lost reputation.

He stressed that the airline, once known for its remarkable standards and service excellence, must be realigned with modern aviation practices, operational efficiency, and global service benchmarks.

“The privatisation process is progressing smoothly to revive PIA and make it a competitive airline once again,” he said.

The premier also expressed hope that the new management—whoever wins the bid—will bring strong leadership, financial discipline, and innovation to the airline.

“InshaAllah, PIA will once again stand by its slogan ‘Great People to Fly With’. Whoever takes charge after the bidding will have the responsibility to revive the airline’s reputation and focus on its growth,” he added.

This aligns with the government’s broader policy of restructuring loss-making state enterprises to reduce fiscal burden and attract international investment in Pakistan’s aviation sector.

One of the key points highlighted during the meeting was the need to restore and expand PIA’s international flight operations, which were significantly limited in recent years due to regulatory concerns and financial challenges.

PM Shehbaz emphasized that improving global connectivity will greatly benefit overseas Pakistanis, especially those living in Europe, the Middle East, and North America. He said that a stronger, compliant, and service-oriented PIA is crucial for Pakistan’s travel and tourism industry.

Reviving international operations would also support:

Pakistan’s tourism economy
Air cargo and trade logistics
Global accessibility for Pakistani businesses
Travel convenience for expatriates and their families

The premier stressed that with efficient management, transparent governance, and strict compliance mechanisms, PIA can regain its competitive place in regional and global aviation markets.

Participants at the meeting appreciated the government’s professional, open, and transparent approach toward privatisation. Many noted that the decision to broadcast the bidding live is a strong message that the government wants to eliminate any doubt or speculation surrounding the process.

Business leaders reportedly acknowledged:

Clear procedural guidelines
Merit-based evaluations
Equal opportunities for all bidders
Consistent engagement with stakeholders

Such measures, they said, have boosted investor confidence in Pakistan’s aviation sector and may pave the way for further international interest in local public-private partnership ventures.

The PIA privatisation process is widely regarded as one of the most significant structural reforms planned for 2025. With decades of financial losses, operational inefficiencies, and increasing competition, PIA struggled to retain its position in the region.

The upcoming bidding is expected to: