PIA to acquire 12 new fuel efficient airplanes

KARACHI: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is in the process of acquiring 12 narrow bodied, fuel efficient airplanes which will enable the airline to offer better services to its customers.

With these purchases, PIA aims to save on fuel and maintenance costs as currently the airline's fuel cost is close to 60% as compared to the industry average of 35%.

Managing Director of PIA, Muhammad Junaid Yunus made the announcement at the 56th annual meeting. The meeting was presided over by Hussain Lawai, Senior Member of the Board of Directors, held in Karachi. Board Member Javed Akhter was also present.

PIA shareholders appreciated the present management's role in maintaining the airline operations with the current fleet constraint and frequent change of management. They demanded consistency and continuity of management to implement their plan effectively to achieve desired results.

Junaid Yunus said the airline is in dire of new airplanes for its fleet.

Hussain Lawai said PIA will be getting four new narrow body airplanes on lease from its own resources and no further loans will be needed. He added a complaint cell will be established with active participation of the shareholders.

Later, the shareholders approved the annual accounts for the year 2012.