PIA edges closer to Boeing deal for 16 new aircraft

Dhaka: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has moved closer to finalizing a deal with Boeing for 16 new aircraft, following progress in talks held at the American planemaker's headquarters in Washington.

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Boeing's headquarters on July 16, where he met Boeing Global President Brendan Nelson to discuss the proposed acquisition and options for modernizing the national carrier's fleet.

A delegation from PIA's new management also attended the meeting.

Officials said the two sides reviewed suitable aircraft options and discussed ways to secure the best possible commercial terms for the airline. Both parties agreed to work toward finalizing the deal at the earliest opportunity.

Naqvi thanked Nelson for assuring full cooperation in expediting the procurement process, while also acknowledging Boeing's broader role in the global aerospace industry and its contributions to aircraft manufacturing over the years.

The proposed acquisition is expected to form a key part of PIA's ongoing fleet modernization strategy, as the airline looks to expand its operational capacity and enhance passenger services amid broader restructuring efforts following its privatization.