Govt forms committee to oversee PIA privatization, outsourcing of airports

ISLAMABAD – The PML-N-led federal government has established a committee to oversee the process of outsourcing the country’s major airports and privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

A committee has been established under the chairmanship of the Minister of Defence and Aviation, Khawaja Asif Ahmad to oversee and expedite these initiatives, as announced in a recent notification.

Comprising key stakeholders including the Minister of Privatization, Abdul Aleem Khan, Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, Secretary of Privatization, Deputy Chairman Planning Commission, and Secretary of Aviation Division, the committee will review the outsourcing of airport management and monitor matters related to PIA’s privatization.

The government’s move is aligned with its objective of generating foreign exchange to support the economy. Notably, the operations and management of Jinnah International Airport Karachi, Islamabad International Airport, and Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore are already in the process of being delegated to private entities.

Additionally, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing the privatization process of PIA by June, underscoring the administration’s dedication to fostering efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness in both the aviation industry and state-owned enterprises.

Amid ongoing economic challenges, these initiatives are pivotal in driving sustainable growth and ensuring the effective management of vital national assets.