Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has received its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, with the aircraft arriving at Islamabad International Airport from London Heathrow Airport on Sunday 1 November.
The aircraft operated flight PK-786 and is being provided under an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) agreement with Norse Atlantic Airways. Under the wet-lease arrangement, the Norwegian airline supplies the aircraft and crew, while retaining responsibility for maintenance and insurance.
Aircraft arrives from London
| Aircraft | Operating arrangement | Origin | Destination | Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boeing 787-9 | ACMI lease from Norse Atlantic Airways | London Heathrow Airport | Islamabad International Airport | 1 November 2026 |
PIA chief executive officer Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat and members of the airline’s team welcomed the aircraft in Islamabad. Its arrival forms part of the carrier’s efforts to modernise its fleet and expand its international operations, although the aircraft will be operated through the agreement with Norse Atlantic rather than as a directly crewed PIA aircraft.
“Pakistan's and PIA's first Boeing 787-9 touches down in Islamabad, marking a significant milestone in our journey towards transformation, fulfilling our resolve for bringing newer fleet and providing greater flying comfort & better experience to our guests.” — Pakistan International Airlines
The Aircraft Owners and Operators Association (AOOA) Pakistan described the induction as an important development for PIA’s revival and said the aircraft would strengthen the airline’s international operations. The organisation also linked the new aircraft with improved air connectivity between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, as well as travel facilities for overseas Pakistanis.
Fleet renewal accompanied by service priorities
AOOA Pakistan cautioned that the addition of modern aircraft alone would not restore the airline’s position. It identified several operational and customer-facing priorities for PIA:
- improving service standards;
- maintaining punctual flights;
- providing quality facilities; and
- restoring passenger confidence through a modern booking system.
The organisation’s comments place the 787-9 arrival within a wider recovery effort rather than treating the aircraft acquisition as a standalone measure. PIA has said the aircraft will support its international network, while the ACMI structure gives Norse Atlantic responsibility for the aircraft’s crew, maintenance and insurance.
The arrival also adds a new aircraft type to PIA’s international fleet operations. The first 787-9 was flown to Islamabad from London on the carrier’s PK-786 service, providing a direct link between the fleet-modernisation programme and one of PIA’s established international markets.
