In a decisive move, the Punjab government has dismissed earlier reports regarding a potential acquisition of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and announced plans to launch its own airline, “Punjab Air.” This initiative comes at the directive of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.
Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasized that the government has no intention of purchasing PIA, urging the public to ignore any misinformation about its interest in the national carrier.
According to government sources, “Punjab Air” will be a joint venture with private investors, with feasibility studies expected to begin shortly. While discussions are ongoing regarding the government’s stake in the airline, it is anticipated that they will retain a significant share.
Previously, Nawaz Sharif had proposed that the Punjab government either acquire PIA or establish a new airline. However, the recent failed privatization attempt of PIA, where Blue World City’s bid of Rs10 billion fell significantly short of the government’s minimum price of Rs85 billion, has opened the door for this new venture.
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