Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially commenced the search for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) following the end of current CEO Amir Hayat’s tenure. As part of the process, the airline released a public advertisement detailing the requirements for prospective candidates, who must be between 45 and 57 years of age and possess either 20 years of experience managing large organizations or at least 10 years in the aviation industry. Interested applicants have a 15-day period from the publication date of the advertisement to submit their applications.
The search for a new CEO comes at a critical time for PIA, as the airline faces renewed interest from provincial governments regarding its potential acquisition. Although there was initial speculation about Punjab’s interest in acquiring PIA, the provincial government has since clarified its stance. Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari addressed the matter during a press conference, stating that the Punjab government has no plans to pursue ownership of PIA. She emphasized that former Prime Minister Mian Nawaz Sharif had never indicated any intention for Punjab to purchase the national carrier.
However, interest from other provinces remains, particularly from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has expressed a strong commitment to placing a bid for PIA. His government’s interest follows a recent bid from the Blue World City consortium, which fell short of expectations. Gandapur has indicated that KP is prepared to exceed the consortium’s current offer of Rs. 10 billion, citing the province’s improved financial position as a key factor. “KP has increased its revenue by 44%, successfully meeting IMF targets,” Gandapur said, underlining the province’s confidence in its financial stability and readiness to invest in the national carrier.
The KP government’s move to bid for PIA aligns with its broader economic strategy and its commitment to increase regional control over critical national assets. With KP’s revenue growth and recent financial achievements, Gandapur’s administration sees acquiring PIA as an opportunity to further bolster the province’s economic standing.
This developing situation underscores PIA’s significance not only as a national carrier but as a potential asset for regional governments aiming to enhance local influence in Pakistan’s key industries. As the search for a new CEO continues, it remains to be seen how the interest from KP and other potential buyers will shape PIA’s future direction.
