PIA Announces Boeing 787 Dreamliners for European Routes
Pakistan International Airlines signs an agreement with Norwegian carrier Norse Atlantic for two advanced Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with UK flight operations expected to begin in November 2026.
ISLAMABAD, October 9, 2026 Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has signed an agreement with Norwegian airline Norse Atlantic Airways to introduce two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft into its international operations, marking a significant step in the national carrier’s fleet modernisation and overseas expansion plans.
According to an announcement issued by the airline, the advanced wide-body aircraft are expected to begin operating in early November 2026, primarily strengthening PIA’s services between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, with the airline also outlining plans to expand its European network.
The agreement represents the first introduction of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft into passenger operations for a Pakistani airline.
Modern Aircraft to Strengthen International Operations
Under the agreement, Norse Atlantic will provide two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners through an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) arrangement, commonly known as a wet lease.
This means Norse Atlantic will supply the aircraft, operating crews, maintenance services and insurance, while supporting PIA’s expansion of international passenger services.
The arrangement will allow PIA to increase its long-haul capacity without immediately purchasing additional aircraft or establishing a separate operating infrastructure for the new aircraft type.
PIA officials said the agreement reflects the new management’s commitment to modernising operations, improving passenger services and strengthening the national carrier’s competitiveness in international aviation markets.
Improved Facilities for Passengers
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is a modern long-haul aircraft designed to provide improved passenger comfort, operational efficiency and international connectivity.
The aircraft feature advanced cabin systems, larger windows, improved cabin pressurisation, modern lighting and technology designed to provide a quieter and more comfortable flying experience.
According to PIA, the incoming aircraft will also offer upgraded onboard entertainment facilities and modern passenger cabins, particularly benefiting travellers on longer international journeys.
The introduction of Dreamliner services is expected to strengthen the airline’s ability to serve increasing passenger demand between Pakistan and overseas destinations.
UK Flight Expansion Expected in November
The two Dreamliners are scheduled to begin operations from the start of November 2026, with additional capacity planned across multiple destinations connecting Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
The development comes as PIA continues expanding its UK services following the restoration of direct flight operations.
In September, the airline announced plans to increase weekly London flights from four to seven starting October 27, including five weekly departures from Islamabad and two from Lahore.
The Dreamliner partnership is expected to complement this broader expansion, although the airlines have not yet publicly confirmed the specific routes, flight numbers or deployment schedules for the two aircraft.
PIA and Norse Atlantic Welcome Agreement
PIA Chief Executive Officer Amir Hayat described the United Kingdom as an important market for the national carrier and said the partnership would help increase capacity and provide travellers with greater choice.
He expressed confidence that introducing Dreamliner aircraft would support the airline’s plans to improve passenger services and strengthen its international network.
Norse Atlantic Chief Executive Officer Eivind Roald also welcomed the partnership, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen connectivity between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, particularly for the large Pakistani community living in Britain.
The agreement also supports Norse Atlantic’s strategy of supplying aircraft and operational services to international airlines through long-term leasing partnerships.
Part of PIA’s Broader Modernisation Strategy
The development forms part of PIA’s ongoing efforts to modernise its international operations under its new management.
The airline is focusing on improved passenger facilities, expanded long-haul services, operational efficiency and stronger connectivity with major international destinations.
For travellers departing from Islamabad and other major Pakistani cities, the introduction of Dreamliner aircraft could provide additional capacity and a more modern passenger experience on selected international routes.
The final deployment schedule, service frequency and ticketing arrangements are expected to become clearer as the planned November launch approaches.
