Arif Habib, Chairman of the Arif Habib Group, is optimistic that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) will achieve profitability within its first year under private management. Speaking to the media after taking control of PIA, Habib noted that the airline currently operates 18 of its 30 aircraft. He outlined plans to restore four to five grounded planes and to add five wide-body aircraft, with the overall fleet expected to expand to 60 planes over the next five years.

Habib emphasized the strong engineering base in Karachi, which will receive fresh investment to improve its capabilities. Recruitment for senior management positions is currently underway and is expected to be finalized within six weeks. Notably, under the terms of the privatization agreement, no employees will be laid off during the first year.

He highlighted that PIA has “never suffered an operating loss” and possesses significant growth potential. Habib reiterated his confidence that the airline will post profits in its first year of privatization, signaling a new chapter in its turnaround strategy.