Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to recruit new cabin crew after a prolonged gap. The airline is preparing for possible fleet expansion and plans to hire young flight attendants before acquiring additional aircraft. Reports said the recruitment drive is expected to be completed before the arrival or acquisition of new planes.
PIA’s new management is also working on plans to expand the airline’s fleet and improve its operations. The airline intends to recruit both cabin crew and pilots as part of preparations for the planned fleet expansion. The hiring plan comes as PIA enters a new phase following its privatization and management transition.
The national carrier has faced years of financial losses, shrinking operations and declining public confidence. PIA had accumulated losses of more than $2.8 billion before entering the latest phase of its restructuring. The airline is now expected to focus on improving its financial position, fleet and overall passenger experience.
Former Ethiopian Airlines chief Tewolde GebreMariam has also been appointed as PIA’s new Chief Executive Officer, according to reports. A senior PIA official reportedly confirmed that the appointment has been finalized. However, the official said the appointment would be formally announced after completion of the required security clearances.
The development follows the first phase of PIA’s privatization, with management control transferred to a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation. The consortium has already committed significant funds toward stabilizing and expanding the airline. As part of the first phase, it paid Rs10 billion to the government as purchase consideration and injected Rs80 billion in fresh capital into PIA.
The investment is aimed at expanding and modernizing PIA’s fleet and strengthening its domestic and international route network. The funds are also expected to improve operational efficiency and customer service standards. According to the Privatization Commission, Rs55 billion will go to the government as payment for the airline, while Rs125 billion will be invested directly into PIA.
Under the privatization agreement, the consortium is expected to inject another Rs45 billion within the next 12 months. It has also expressed interest in purchasing the remaining 25 percent stake in PIA through an additional payment of Rs45 billion to the government. These investments are expected to support the airline’s long-term restructuring and growth.
The planned cabin crew recruitment is part of broader efforts to prepare PIA for its next stage of growth. The airline will need additional trained employees if its fleet and flight operations expand as planned. The new management is also expected to focus on improving passenger confidence, operational reliability and service quality.
The success of PIA’s restructuring will depend on several factors, including fleet modernization, profitable routes and improved operational performance. The planned recruitment of cabin crew and pilots suggests the airline is preparing its workforce for potential expansion in the coming period.
Also read: PIA Officially Handed Over to New Owners
