Private Sector Will Play a Key Role in Transforming the National Airline into a World-Class Carrier, Says Atif Ikram Sheikh

Islamabad (Special Correspondent): President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Atif Ikram Sheikh, has described the transparent privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and its transfer to the private sector as a significant milestone in the country’s economic reform agenda. He stated that the private sector fully supports the government’s initiatives aimed at achieving economic stability.

In his statement, Atif Ikram Sheikh congratulated the new owners of PIA and the management of PIA Equity Limited, a subsidiary of the Arif Habib Consortium. He said that through fresh investment, the private sector would focus on implementing operational reforms, modernizing the airline’s fleet, and launching new routes.

He added that the successful privatization of PIA would further strengthen the government’s reform program. He noted that greater private sector participation would not only reduce the financial burden on national resources but also significantly improve the airline’s operational performance.

Atif Ikram Sheikh expressed confidence that the new management would honor PIA’s distinguished legacy while successfully transforming the national carrier into a modern, efficient, and internationally competitive airline that meets global standards.