PIA’s first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner lands in Islamabad

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has welcomed its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, marking a significant step towards modernising its fleet and expanding international operations.

The aircraft arrived at Islamabad International Airport from London on Sunday as flight PK786. PIA acquired the wide-body jet under a lease agreement signed last month with Norse Atlantic Airways.

PIA Chief Executive Officer Aamir Hayat, accompanied by senior officials, received the aircraft at the airport. The airline said it was the first Pakistani carrier to add a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner to its fleet.

The newly acquired aircraft features modern technology, an advanced in-flight entertainment system and a spacious cabin designed to provide passengers with a more comfortable travel experience.

With a capacity of up to 325 passengers, the Boeing 787-9 is a long-range, twin-engine aircraft capable of operating international routes. PIA plans to use the Dreamliners for direct long-haul services between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.

The airline said the addition was part of its broader strategy to upgrade its fleet, improve passenger facilities and strengthen its international network. The expansion is also aimed at meeting growing travel demand and providing better global connectivity.

Under the agreement signed in October, PIA secured two Boeing 787-9 aircraft through an ACMI lease arrangement, covering the aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance. The second aircraft is also expected to become part of the airline’s expansion plans.

The development comes as PIA moves towards rebuilding its operations following years of financial and operational challenges. The federal government had clarified in September that it was not purchasing new aircraft for the airline.

PIA was privatised in December 2025, when a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation secured a 75 per cent stake in the national carrier with a bid of Rs135 billion.

The consortium had pledged to turn around the loss-making airline through operational reforms, fleet expansion and improved passenger services. The arrival of the first Dreamliner marks a visible development in those expansion efforts.