Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday directed that all steps for the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) be completed quickly and transparently.

Chairing a meeting on PIA’s affairs in Islamabad, the prime minister instructed authorities to increase the number of airworthy aircraft in the national carrier’s fleet and ensure timely departures of all flights.

The meeting was briefed on PIA’s privatisation plan and business strategy.

Officials said four parties have been pre-qualified to bid for the airline, with the process expected to begin soon. Seventy-five per cent of PIA’s shares will be privatised, with a condition that the airline’s name and national identity remain unchanged.

The business plan also aims to expand PIA’s fleet from 18 operational aircraft to 38.

Currently serving 30 cities, the airline plans to extend its network to more than 40 destinations by 2029.

The prime minister emphasised that the privatisation and fleet expansion should strengthen PIA’s operations and improve service standards for passengers.