Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) welcomed its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in Islamabad on November 1, marking a milestone in the national carrier’s fleet modernization plans and efforts to expand its international operations.
The aircraft arrived from London Heathrow Airport operating as flight PK-786. It was acquired on lease from Norwegian airline Norse Atlantic Airways under an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) agreement, also known as a wet lease.
PIA Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Aamir Hayat and members of the airline’s team welcomed the aircraft at Islamabad International Airport.
A PIA spokesperson said the aircraft was the first Boeing 787 of its kind to join the fleet of any airline in Pakistan. “The state-of-the-art Dreamliner, acquired on lease, arrived in Islamabad from London operating as flight PK-786,” the spokesperson said in a statement.
“This is the first Boeing 787 of its kind to join the fleet of any airline in Pakistan.”
PIA to receive two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners
The aircraft’s arrival follows an ACMI lease agreement signed between PIA and Norse Atlantic Airways last month for two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
Under the arrangement, Norse Atlantic provides the aircraft and crew and remains responsible for maintenance and insurance.
The addition of the aircraft is intended to support PIA’s long-haul operations, particularly direct flights between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, as the airline seeks to expand connectivity and accommodate growing passenger demand.
“The inclusion of the Dreamliner is part of a strategy to modernise PIA’s fleet and strengthen its international network,” the spokesperson said.
PIA also said its objective was to provide internationally standardized travel facilities and a more comfortable flying experience through the introduction of modern aircraft.
Boeing 787-9 features and specifications
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is a wide-body, twin-engine aircraft designed for long-distance international routes.
According to Boeing, the aircraft can accommodate approximately 250 to 325 passengers, depending on its configuration, and has a maximum flying range of around 15,370 kilometers.
The aircraft is equipped with modern technology, including an in-flight entertainment system, and features a spacious cabin.
“The Boeing 787 is equipped with modern technology, including an in-flight entertainment system, and features a spacious and comfortable cabin,” the PIA spokesperson said.
Its long-range capability makes it suitable for direct international services connecting Pakistan with destinations in Europe and other regions.
PIA’s fleet and international network
Before the Dreamliner’s arrival, PIA’s fleet included Boeing 777 wide-body aircraft, Airbus A320 narrow-body jets and ATR turboprop aircraft.
The airline operates flights to more than 25 international destinations, including London, Dubai, Beijing and Riyadh.
The introduction of the Boeing 787-9 is part of a broader plan to modernize the fleet, improve passenger services and strengthen the carrier’s international network.
PIA’s new ownership and incoming CEO
The Dreamliner’s arrival comes as PIA undergoes restructuring following its privatization and transfer to private management.
The airline has nominated aviation executive Adrian Hamilton-Manns, former CEO of Oman’s SalamAir, as its next chief executive. His nomination was reported on October 17 and remained subject to security and other regulatory clearances. Business Recorder+1
Hamilton-Manns previously led Kazakhstan’s FlyArystan from 2020 to 2024 and SalamAir from 2024 to 2026. He began his aviation career at Air New Zealand in 1997 and has held senior positions at airlines across Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Business Recorder+1
He is expected to succeed Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Amir Hayat, who welcomed the Dreamliner at Islamabad International Airport.
PIA was privatized in December 2025 when an Arif Habib Corporation-led consortium won a 75% stake in the airline with a bid of Rs135 billion. The consortium assumed management control on June 29, 2026. AP News+1
Under the initial transaction closing, the consortium’s investment vehicle, PIA Equity Limited, holds 66.67% of the airline, while PIA Holding Company Limited retains 33.33%. The planned second closing is expected to increase the consortium’s shareholding to 75%, leaving the government with 25%.