KARACHI, Oct 09 (APP): Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has signed a partnership agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways to induct two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners into its fleet, paving the way for an expansion of its long-haul operations, according to a PIA press release.
The aircraft are expected to join PIA in November 2026 and will be deployed on direct flights between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, enhancing capacity and connectivity on the key routes.
PIA spokesman said the addition of the wide-body aircraft would mark the beginning of its fleet expansion initiative, enabling the national flag carrier to respond to growing passenger demand and strengthen its international network.
Under the agreement, Norse Atlantic will provide the aircraft along with crew, maintenance and insurance under an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) arrangement. The partnership will enable PIA to expand its long-haul operations while allowing Norse Atlantic to redeploy capacity from its returning fleet.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, PIA Chief Executive Officer AVM Amir Hayat said the United Kingdom remained an important market for the airline, and the agreement would help increase capacity and offer passengers greater choice and connectivity.
“We are pleased to partner with Norse Atlantic as we continue to strengthen our international network and respond to strong demand for direct travel between the two countries,” he said.
He added that the introduction of the Dreamliners would bring a new aircraft type to the Pakistani market and expressed hope that the aircraft would enhance the travel experience for passengers expecting premium services from PIA.
Norse Atlantic CEO Eivind Roald said the agreement marked progress in the airline’s strategy to redeploy capacity through new ACMI opportunities.
“We are pleased to support PIA’s long-haul capacity expansion and strengthen connectivity between the UK and Pakistan, providing the large Pakistani community in the UK with more travel options between the two countries,” he said.
Roald described the agreement as the beginning of a strategic partnership between the two airlines.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
