Pakistan International Airlines Appoints Adrian Hamilton-Manns as CEO

The board of Pakistan International Airlines announced on Monday, November 2, 2026, that Adrian Hamilton-Manns is the new chief executive officer. He assumed the office the same day. PIA said he brings leadership and strategic experience in global aviation and called the appointment a pivotal chapter in the airline's transformation.

The consortium and management board thanked outgoing CEO Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat. PIA said Hayat's four-and-a-half-year tenure covered structural reforms, operational efficiencies, and preparation for privatisation. A consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation Limited won 75 percent of PIA in December of last year with a bid of Rs135 billion and took charge in June.

Key details

• New CEO: Adrian Hamilton-Manns, described as New Zealand-born. PIA said he has managed three airlines as CEO and has over 30 years of experience.
• Outgoing CEO: Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat, four-and-a-half years in the role.
• On Sunday the carrier's first leased Boeing 787-9 arrived in Islamabad from London as PK786. A PIA spokesperson said PIA is the first Pakistani airline to add a 787-9.

PIA said Hamilton-Manns has managed three airlines as CEO and has more than 30 years of experience transforming and reviving airlines.