PIA privatization auction bidding to be held live on Dec 23
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the bidding process for the privatization of the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) would be held on December 23 and will be broadcast live on national television across the country.
The prime minister made the announcement during a meeting at the PM House with business leaders and company representatives participating in the privatisation process.
He underscored that full transparency and merit would remain the government’s foremost priorities in the ongoing privatisation procession, and the airline’s lost reputation must be restored through a smooth and credible transition.
PM Shehbaz said the government was committed to aligning the national flag carrier with modern aviation standards, adding that the reform and divestment process was progressing in an efficient and structured manner. “PIA will soon once again live up to its old slogan of ‘Great People to Fly With’,” he remarked.
Reiterating his government’s commitment to a corruption-free and professionally executed process, he said transparency in every step would be ensured.
“The entire bidding on December 23, 2025, will be aired live on all media channels so that the nation can witness the process firsthand,” he added.
The prime minister said restoring PIA’s global routes would greatly benefit overseas Pakistanis by providing reliable connectivity. He added that modernising the airline was also critical for strengthening Pakistan’s tourism sector, which required a competitive and efficient national carrier.
He expressed hope that whoever ultimately takes charge would dedicate its full energies to restoring the airline’s identity and securing its long-term growth.
The participants praised the government for adopting a transparent and professional mechanism for the privatisation exercise. The meeting was attended by all bidders participating in the PIA privatisation round, along with senior members of the federal cabinet and government advisors.