PIA Plans To Expand Fleet With Leased Planes

Pakistan International Airlines reportedly has put out a tender to acquire eight new narrowbodies and received overwhelming demand from suppliers in a bid to expand its fleet soon. The move comes as PIA looks to modernize its fleet and will return six planes to lessors soon.

According to Pakistan Observer, PIA has published a tender to acquire eight narrowbody aircraft for a six-year lease. The tender has received an overwhelming response, with 128 groups offering to provide the aircraft. While the bidders have not been named.

The wide availability of aircraft will give PIA  abundant choices  and get the lowest price. The carrier is reportedly leaning towards choosing the Airbus A320, citing its advanced technology. The move would also provide fleet continuity and lower costs since PIA already operates 11 A320s.

However, the tender isn’t a major expansion for the flag carrier. Instead, the decision was made since six PIA aircraft have completed their leases at the carrier. With these planes now exiting, the airline is likely taking the chance to add a few more.

Pakistan International Airlines operates a streamlined fleet as of today, only flying three types of aircraft. According to Planespotters.net, PIA’s fleet consists of:

  • Three ATR 42s
  • 11 Airbus A320-200s
  • Eight Boeing 777-200s
  • Four Boeing 777-300ERs

However, the 26-aircraft strong fleet isn’t particularly young at 14.7 years on average. The A320ceos (or -200s) are showing their age, with the oldest now nearly 17 years old and the youngest at roughly 11 years. Seeing this, it makes sense why PIA is looking to make a shift towards a newer and more efficient fleet.

It’s currently unknown if PIA will stick to the trust A320ceo or jump to the newest generation A320neo. While the latter offers much better efficiency and passenger capacity, it will likely be more expensive for the airline and add new engine maintenance costs. However, seeing the overwhelming supply, PIA could snag the A320neo at a great price.

 

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