Pakistan is exploring aircraft leasing and potential Airbus and Rolls-Royce deals to modernize Pakistan International Airlines’ (PIA) fleet, with the United Kingdom offering possible export credit support to help meet the airline’s immediate requirements.
The options were discussed during a meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott, as both countries explored ways to expand trade and cooperation in priority sectors.
According to an official statement, the British side briefed the minister on potential aircraft and engine arrangements for PIA, including export credit support. Aircraft leasing was also discussed to address immediate fleet requirements while Pakistan considers longer-term procurement options.
Jam Kamal said PIA’s direct international routes offered an important commercial advantage. He emphasized the need to improve service standards, reliability and fleet modernization to rebuild passenger confidence.
Pakistan has also been exploring aircraft procurement and financing options with the United States. Last month, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb discussed PIA’s fleet modernization with Boeing Global President Dr. Brendan Nelson, including earlier delivery slots and interim leasing arrangements.
Aurangzeb also met with US EXIM Bank Chair John Jovanovich to explore financing for planned aircraft purchases, particularly Boeing 787 Dreamliners. He highlighted PIA’s interest in Boeing aircraft and the need for spare parts to return grounded Boeing 777s to service.
Beyond aviation, the Pakistan-UK meeting covered a proposed long-term, non-legally binding investment partnership in areas including trade facilitation, regulatory reforms, education, workforce skills and investment financing. Discussions also covered livestock, food safety, healthcare, Pakistani product branding, Islamic finance and cooperation in the minerals sector.
Both sides discussed opportunities to increase the value of Pakistani exports, expand Pakistani food and restaurant brands in the UK, and attract British technical and investment support for sectors including livestock and minerals. The British side also expressed interest in facilitating UK business participation in Pakistan’s planned minerals conference.
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