Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is preparing to expand its long-haul fleet through a new partnership with Norse Atlantic Airways. The agreement will bring two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners into PIA’s operations, creating opportunities to increase capacity on routes between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
The aircraft are expected to join the national flag carrier in November 2026. Moreover, their introduction will mark the beginning of PIA’s planned fleet expansion initiative, according to the airline’s announcement.
PIA to Add Two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners
The partnership will enable PIA to strengthen its international network while responding to growing demand for direct travel between Pakistan and the UK. The airline plans to deploy the wide-body aircraft on these routes, improving capacity and offering passengers more travel options.
PIA spokesperson said the addition of the Dreamliners would mark the start of the airline’s fleet expansion initiative. Furthermore, the move aims to help the national carrier accommodate rising passenger demand and improve international connectivity.
The agreement also introduces a new aircraft type to PIA’s operations. Consequently, the airline expects the Dreamliners to enhance the travel experience for passengers seeking premium services.
How the Norse Atlantic Partnership Will Work
Under the agreement, Norse Atlantic Airways will provide the aircraft and supply crew, maintenance and insurance services. The arrangement follows an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) model.
This structure will allow PIA to expand its long-haul capacity without independently providing all the operational resources covered by the agreement. Meanwhile, Norse Atlantic will redeploy capacity from its returning fleet through the new partnership.
The arrangement therefore creates an opportunity for both airlines to pursue their operational objectives. PIA can increase capacity on important international routes, while Norse Atlantic can make use of its aircraft through additional ACMI operations.
PIA Highlights Growing Demand for UK Travel
Speaking at the signing ceremony, PIA Chief Executive Officer AVM Amir Hayat highlighted the importance of the United Kingdom market. He said the partnership would help the airline increase capacity and give 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.
Hayat also noted that the Dreamliners would introduce a new aircraft type to the Pakistani market. He expressed hope that the aircraft would improve the travel experience for passengers expecting premium services from PIA.
Norse Atlantic Sees Opportunity to Strengthen Connectivity
Norse Atlantic CEO Eivind Roald described the agreement as a step forward 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 also described the agreement as the beginning of a strategic partnership between the two airlines.
With the two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners expected to arrive in November 2026, PIA is preparing to increase its long-haul capacity. The partnership focuses on strengthening UK connections while giving the airline additional resources to respond to passenger demand.
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