PIA plans Maldives route after fleet expansion

National carrier links start of direct service to induction of additional aircraft as Pakistan, Maldives seek stronger air connectivity Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) plans to open a direct route to the Maldives once additional aircraft are inducted into its fleet, the national carrier said on Wednesday. The proposed service would establish direct air connectivity between the two countries, with PIA citing tourism, trade and people-to-people movement among the areas expected to benefit. The timeline, however, remains tied to aircraft availability. PIA Chief Executive Officer Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Amir Hayat said the Maldives service would begin after new aircraft were added to the airline's fleet. The plan was discussed during a meeting at PIA's head office with a Maldivian delegation led by National Assembly Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla. Abdulla said direct connectivity could increase bilateral trade, tourism and public contacts while strengthening relations between Pakistan and the Maldives. PIA's proposed Maldives operation comes as the airline works on expanding and modernising its fleet. Boeing is expected to submit a revised aircraft acquisition proposal to PIA following recent discussions between Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Boeing Global President Dr Brendan Nelson. The two sides also discussed the possibility of securing earlier aircraft delivery slots and using interim leasing arrangements. Aurangzeb separately outlined PIA's privatisation and plans to outsource the management of major airports during the Boeing meeting. Aviation safety, regulatory engagement and efforts to restore direct flights to the United States were also discussed. The visiting Maldivian delegation, in Pakistan as a state guest, included the country's high commissioner, second secretary, deputy leader and other senior officials.