Key Takeaways
- Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has signed an ACMI agreement with Norse Atlantic ASA.
- The deal involves two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners for long-haul flights.
- Operations are expected to commence in early November 2026.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has entered into a significant agreement with Norse Atlantic ASA, a Norwegian aviation group, to operate two new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. This partnership is aimed at enhancing PIA's long-haul flight capacity between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
According to a statement released on Friday, the two aircraft will be operational by early November 2026, significantly boosting PIA's ability to serve the growing demand for international travel between the two countries.
The agreement, known as an ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) deal, will see Norse Atlantic providing the aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance services. This arrangement allows PIA to focus on its core operations while leveraging Norse Atlantic's expertise in managing these critical aspects.
Eivind Roald, CEO of Norse Atlantic ASA, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, 'We are pleased to support PIA’s long-haul capacity expansion and to strengthen connectivity between the UK and Pakistan by providing the large Pakistani community in the UK with more options for travel between the two countries.'
Roald further emphasized that this agreement marks the beginning of a strategic partnership between the two airlines, highlighting the potential for future collaborations and mutual growth.
PIA has been actively pursuing fleet modernization and route expansion since its privatization in December 2025. Currently, the airline operates 31 aircraft, including Boeing 777s and Airbus A320s, serving destinations across China to North America.
The new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will add to PIA's fleet, offering more efficient and comfortable long-haul flights. These aircraft are known for their advanced technology and fuel efficiency, making them ideal for international routes.
The agreement is expected to strengthen the existing connections between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, particularly benefiting the large Pakistani community residing in the UK. This move is anticipated to provide more travel options and enhance the overall travel experience for passengers.
We are pleased to support PIA’s long-haul capacity expansion and to strengthen connectivity between the UK and Pakistan by providing the large Pakistani community in the UK with more options for travel between the two countries.
Eivind Roald, CEO of Norse Atlantic ASA
