Arif Habib Group plans full ownership after acquiring remaining PIA stake

Arif Habib Group is moving forward to acquire the remaining 25 percent government stake in Pakistan International Airlines, a step that will give the private consortium complete ownership of the national carrier.

The consortium already holds 75 percent shares. The latest plan is part of a broader effort to fully privatize the airline and allow private management to run operations independently.

Officials said the government has given the consortium a 90-day window to purchase the remaining shares. The stake is estimated to be worth around Rs45 billion. Under the agreement signed earlier this year, the group has up to 12 months to complete the payment process.

A senior official from Arif Habib Limited said the transfer of full ownership is expected by late April or early May. Once completed, the airline will operate entirely under private control.

Full ownership will allow the new management to introduce reforms more quickly. It will also enable restructuring, operational improvements, and long-term planning without government involvement.

Pakistan International Airlines has struggled financially for many years. The government previously attempted to privatize the airline but faced delays and challenges.

In December last year, the privatization process moved forward again. The government shifted most of the airline’s legacy debt to its own balance sheet. This step was aimed at making the airline more attractive to investors.

At the same time, restrictions imposed by the United Kingdom and the European Union were lifted. This allowed the airline to resume routes and improve its commercial prospects.

The move toward complete private ownership marks a major shift for Pakistan’s aviation sector. Industry observers say it could open the door for modernization and better performance in the future.

The airline is expected to undergo restructuring and possible rebranding as part of its turnaround strategy.