PIA inducts more planes into its fleet
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is working to expand its fleet to
enhance flight operations, the national flag carrier announced on Sunday,
following the induction of another Airbus 320.
Despite holding a 23 percent share of Pakistan’s domestic aviation market,
PIA's 34-plane fleet has struggled to compete with international carriers. The
airline has also faced challenges with a lack of direct flights, even though it
has agreements with 87 countries and key landing slots.
“The 11th Airbus 320, AP-BOM, has been added to the operational fleet,
equipped with new engines. The aircraft was rolled out with fresh paint and new
cabin decorations,” PIA said in a statement.
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Additionally, PIA plans to bring back long-grounded Boeing 777 and ATR
aircraft into service in the coming days, further enhancing its fleet. This
revival is expected to significantly boost PIA’s network expansion and improve
product quality, according to the airline.
Starting this week, PIA has also launched an in-flight internet system on
domestic flights, which has quickly gained popularity among passengers.
The airline emphasized that ensuring punctual flight schedules, along with
providing safe and high-quality services to passengers, remains its top
priority.
"PIA’s flight schedule now boasts a 90 percent regularity," said
PIA Chief Executive Officer Khurram Mushtaq. "Expanding the operational
fleet and improving services are integral to our commitment."
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Earlier this month, PIA announced it would resume flights to Europe in
January, beginning with Paris, following the lifting of a ban by the EU
aviation regulator. The ban, imposed in June 2020 due to concerns over
compliance with international aviation standards, had caused PIA to lose
approximately 40 billion rupees ($144 million) in annual revenue.
This development comes after attempts to privatize PIA earlier this year
failed, with the airline receiving only one bid, far below its asking price.
Source: Dunya News