Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has appointed Adrian Hamilton-Manns as its new chief executive officer (CEO). The experienced aviation executive has officially taken charge of the national airline.
Hamilton-Manns brings more than 30 years of experience in the aviation industry. He has previously served as the chief executive of three airlines operating in Oman, Kazakhstan, and Africa.
His appointment comes during an important period for PIA. An Arif Habib-led consortium took over the airline’s management on June 29, 2026. Hamilton-Manns’ appointment is among the first major leadership changes following the takeover.
The new CEO is expected to lead the airline during its ongoing management transition. His extensive international experience includes airline operations, commercial management, and executive leadership.
Adrian Hamilton-Manns’ Previous Aviation Experience
Before joining PIA, Hamilton-Manns served as the chief executive of Salam Air. The Muscat-based low-cost airline appointed him to the position in July 2024.
He previously worked as president and CEO of Fly Arystan in Kazakhstan. He held this position from April 2020 until July 2024.
Hamilton-Manns also has experience working with several major airlines. His earlier career includes senior commercial positions at India’s IndiGo and South African Airways.
He also held commercial roles at Virgin Australia’s Pacific Blue and Indonesia’s Mandala Airlines.
These positions provided him with experience across different international aviation markets. His background includes working with airlines operating under different business models and market conditions.
His appointment brings an international aviation executive into PIA’s top management. The airline is currently undergoing changes following the consortium’s takeover.
PIA Board Acknowledges Outgoing CEO’s Contributions
Meanwhile, the PIA consortium and board have acknowledged the services of outgoing CEO Air Vice Marshal (retd.) Aamir Hayat.
Hayat led the national carrier during a challenging period. His tenure involved several operational difficulties and important developments for the airline.
During his leadership, PIA made progress in improving its aviation safety standards. European and British authorities also lifted restrictions previously imposed on the airline.
These developments were significant for the carrier’s international operations. The removal of restrictions allowed PIA to move forward with its European and British flight operations.
The consortium and board recognized Hayat’s contributions during his time as chief executive.
Leadership Change Comes After Management Takeover
The appointment of Hamilton-Manns represents a new phase in PIA’s management. The Arif Habib-led consortium assumed control of the airline’s management on June 29, 2026.
His selection marks one of the first major executive changes under the new management structure.
With more than three decades of aviation experience, Hamilton-Manns now takes responsibility for leading Pakistan’s national airline.
His previous leadership roles across several international carriers will form part of his experience in the new position.
In other related n ews also read Deconstructing PIA’s privatisation
The latest appointment comes as PIA continues its efforts to improve airline operations and strengthen its position in international aviation.
