PIA fleet expansion begins as two new aircraft join soon

PIA approves immediate aircraft induction

The PIA Board of Directors has approved the immediate induction of two aircraft on a wet lease basis, according to sources. Both aircraft are expected to become part of the PIA fleet in October. The move comes after several years without major additions to the airline’s fleet.

New aircraft to support European operations

The two wet-leased aircraft will mainly be used for European flight operations. They will initially remain in the PIA fleet for six months under the lease arrangement.

The addition of the aircraft is expected to help PIA increase its flight capacity and revenue. The move could also provide more options for the airline to operate flights on important international routes.

Boeing deal remains separate

The pilots and cabin crew operating the wet-leased aircraft will also be provided by the leasing company. The two aircraft are separate from PIA’s planned deal with US aircraft manufacturer Boeing.

PIA officials had visited Boeing’s headquarters in the United States last month regarding a plan to purchase 16 aircraft. The Boeing plan is separate from the immediate wet-lease arrangement approved by the PIA board.

The decision signals a fresh effort to strengthen PIA’s fleet after years of limited expansion. Bringing in two aircraft could help the airline increase available seats and improve international operations.

The six-month lease will also give PIA a quick way to add aircraft without waiting for new planes to be purchased and delivered. The bigger question will be whether the airline continues adding aircraft after the initial lease period.

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