Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has welcomed its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which arrived at Islamabad International Airport as flight PK786 from London on Sunday. The aircraft was acquired under a lease agreement signed with Norse Atlantic Airways last month.
According to a PIA spokesperson, the airline has become the first Pakistani carrier to add the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner to its fleet. The aircraft features modern technology, in-flight entertainment and a spacious cabin designed to improve passenger comfort on long-haul journeys.
PIA Chief Executive Aamir Hayat, accompanied by senior members of the airline’s management team, welcomed the aircraft upon its arrival at Islamabad airport.
The Boeing 787-9 is a long-range, twin-engine aircraft with a seating capacity of up to 325 passengers. Its addition is part of PIA’s strategy to modernise its fleet, strengthen international operations and improve travel facilities for passengers.
Under the agreement, PIA is acquiring two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners through an ACMI lease arrangement, which covers the aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance. The first aircraft has now arrived in Pakistan, while the arrangement is intended to support the airline’s wider operational requirements.
The new aircraft is expected to support PIA’s long-haul operations between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, including direct services connecting destinations in both countries. The airline also aims to expand its international network and respond to growing demand for international air travel.
Before the Dreamliner’s arrival, PIA’s fleet included 12 Boeing 777 aircraft, 15 Airbus A320s and five ATR aircraft. The introduction of the Boeing 787-9 adds a new aircraft type to the carrier’s operations and represents a step towards diversifying its long-haul fleet.
The development comes as PIA continues efforts to reshape its operations following its privatisation last year. A consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation Limited secured a 75 per cent stake in the airline through an auction with a bid of Rs135 billion.
The Aircraft Owners and Operators Association (AOOA) Pakistan also described the aircraft’s arrival as an important milestone for the airline’s revival, highlighting its potential contribution to international operations.
With the addition of the Dreamliner, PIA is looking to strengthen its long-haul capacity, improve the passenger experience and expand Pakistan’s international air connectivity.
