ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)’s first Boeing 787 Dreamliner arrived in Islamabad, operating a flight from London, marking a historic milestone as the first aircraft of its kind to join the fleet of any airline in the country, the airline announced on Sunday.
Norse Atlantic Airways, a Norwegian airline, announced last month that it had entered into a wet lease agreement with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), providing the airline with two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
A wet lease, also known as an aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance (ACMI) arrangement, allows an airline to operate an aircraft provided by another carrier along with the associated services.
Pakistan’s and PIA’s first Boeing 787-9 touches down in Islamabad, marking a significant milestone in our journey towards transformation, fulfilling our resolve for bringing newer fleet and providing greater flying comfort & better experience to our guests.
The event also imaugurates the resumption of PIA’s daily service to London Heathrow from Islamabad & Lahore.
— PIA (@Official_PIA) November 1, 2026
“The state-of-the-art Dreamliner, acquired on lease, arrived in Islamabad from London operating as flight PK-786,” PIA’s spokesperson said in a statement. “This is the first Boeing 787 of its kind to join the fleet of any airline in Pakistan.”
PIA CEO Air Vice Marshal Aamir Hayat, accompanied by members of the airline’s team, welcomed the aircraft when it arrived at the Islamabad International Airport.
Equipped with modern technology
“The Boeing 787 is equipped with modern technology, including an in-flight entertainment system, and features a spacious and comfortable cabin,” the spokesperson said.
“The addition of the Dreamliner is part of PIA’s strategy to modernise its fleet and strengthen its international network.”
#PIA and @flynorse sign a partnership agreement for the lease of @BoeingAirplanes 787-900 Dreamliners, the first of their kind in Pakistan, to supplement PIA’s #UK operations.
The addition of Boeing 787 Dreamliners mark the begining of PIA’s expansion and new management’s committment to provide world class services to our valued customers. The aircraft are expected to join PIA in Nov ’26.
— PIA (@Official_PIA) October 9, 2026
According to Boeing, the 787-9 can accommodate between 250 and 325 passengers and has a maximum takeoff weight of 259,220 kilograms. The aircraft measures 62.8 metres in length and 17 metres in height, with a flying range of up to 15,370 kilometres.
PIA currently operates flights to more than 25 international destinations, including London, Dubai, Beijing and Riyadh, according to its official website.
Before the latest addition, the airline’s fleet consisted of Boeing 777 wide-body aircraft, Airbus A320 narrow-body jets, and ATR42-500 and ATR72-500 turboprop aircraft.
“By introducing modern aircraft, PIA aims to deliver internationally standardised travel services and provide passengers with a more comfortable flying experience,” the airline said.
ALSO READ: Boeing 787: A New Chapter in PIA’s Fleet Expansion
Pakistan privatised its former national flag carrier in December 2025, when a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation agreed to acquire a 75 percent stake in the airline for Rs135 billion ($482 million). The transaction valued PIA at Rs180 billion ($643 million).
As part of its revival strategy, PIA’s new management plans to expand its fleet from the current 19 aircraft to 64 over the next eight years, more than tripling its size.
