Adrian Hamilton-Manns has formally assumed charge as the new chief executive officer (CEO) of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), bringing three decades of commercial aviation experience to the national flag carrier. "PIA's board is pleased to announce the appointment of Hamilton-Manns as the CEO. He brings a wealth of leadership & strategic experience, and his appointment marks a pivotal chapter in PIA’s ongoing transformation," the airline said in a statement posted on X on Monday. The statement added that Hamilton-Manns had previously served as CEO of three airlines and held leadership positions at several others. With more than 30 years of professional experience, he is regarded by the airline as an expert in restructuring and reviving aviation businesses. PIA' Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Adrian Hamilton-Manns as the CEO. He brings a wealth of leadership & strategic experience and his appointment marks a pivotal chapter in PIA’s ongoing transformation. He has to his credit managing three airlines as a CEO… pic.twitter.com/ltjDGR6ZEZ — PIA (@Official_PIA) November 2, 2026 The PIA consortium and board also expressed appreciation for the services of outgoing CEO Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Amir Hayat, acknowledging his leadership during a period of significant challenges for the airline. According to the airline, PIA navigated difficult circumstances during Hayat's tenure, including operational and regulatory challenges. The airline credited the outgoing CEO with overseeing significant improvements in aviation safety standards, helping secure the lifting of restrictions on PIA flights to Europe and the United Kingdom, and preparing the organisation for privatisation. The board acknowledged Hayat's contribution to the airline's efforts to restore international operations and strengthen its institutional position. Last year in December, the government sold its 75% stake in PIA for Rs10.1 billion cash to a consortium, marking the completion of the first major privatisation transaction in two decades by offloading the white elephant. The consortium of Habib, Fawad Ahmed Mukhtar, Gohar Ejaz and Aqeel Karim Dhedhi — Pakistan's renowned businesspersons- placed the highest bid of Rs135 billion for the 75% shares in the 13th round of open auction. It beat another cash-rich consortium led by Muhammad Ali Tabba. Later in June, the Arif Habib Consortium took over PIA management as govt formally completed the privatisation process.