Former FlyArystan CEO takes the helm at Pakistan International Airlines

Image: Pakistan International Airlines

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has officially appointed Adrian Hamilton-Manns as Chief Executive Officer of the national flag carrier.

Hamilton-Manns, a New Zealand national, is a familiar figure in Central Asian commercial aviation, having served as CEO of Kazakhstan’s pioneer low-cost carrier, FlyArystan, from April 2020 to July 2024.

Prior to taking the top job at PIA, Hamilton-Manns headed Omani budget carrier SalamAir (July 2024–October 2026). His executive background also includes founding and serving as CEO of African LCC flyafrica.com between.

“We are confident that [Adrian Hamilton-Manns’s] extensive industry expertise will accelerate our strategic objectives, elevate our service standards, and drive sustainable profitability in this new era for PIA,” the carrier said.

The leadership change comes during a structural overhaul of the state carrier: in June 2026, the Pakistani government formally transferred ownership and management rights of PIA to a consortium led by investment firm Arif Habib Corp.

Pakistan International Airlines’ active fleet currently comprises 7 Boeing 777s, 10 Airbus A320s, and 2 ATR turboprops, with an additional 10 aircraft parked in storage.