Source: Deutsche Nachrichten
Pakistan International Airlines has signed an agreement for a comprehensive cabin modernization program covering selected Boeing 777 aircraft. The program forms part of PIA’s ongoing efforts to further enhance its long-haul cabin product and improve the onboard experience for passengers.
Structured as a phased program, the agreement includes five confirmed Boeing 777 aircraft with options for an additional four aircraft. The refurbishment scope includes the installation of full-flat Business Class seats, refurbishment of the existing Economy Class seating, introduction of new 60W In-Seat Power Supply (ISPS) and Passenger Service System (PSS) equipment throughout the cabin, together with new carpets, branding elements and other selected cabin interior upgrades.
Beyond the cabin modifications, the program also encompasses engineering support, certification activities, material procurement and logistics, project management, and technical coordination. Execution will be carried out in line with PIA’s fleet planning, maintenance schedule and operational requirements to support an efficient implementation.
PIA CEO Muhammad Amir Hayat, commenting on the Boeing 777 fleet refurbishment initiative, said: “Following the completion of the privatization process and the transition to the new consortium-led Board and management, PIA has embarked on a renewed journey focused on elevating the passenger experience and enhancing the quality of our onboard product.
As part of this transformation, PIA is undertaking a comprehensive, phased refurbishment of its Boeing 777 fleet, introducing a contemporary cabin environment aligned with evolving global aviation standards and passenger expectations. The initiative reflects our commitment to providing our passengers with greater comfort, convenience, and a more refined travel experience across our long-haul network.
I am pleased to announce that PIA is partnering with internationally recognized companies specializing in aircraft cabin refurbishment to upgrade our Boeing 777 fleet. These collaborations will bring contemporary cabin solutions and industry expertise to our fleet, supporting PIA’s objective of delivering a significantly enhanced onboard experience.
The introduction of executive economy flat-bed seats will be an important enhancement to our long-haul product, offering passengers greater comfort and an improved opportunity to rest during their journey. At the same time, the refurbishment of economy-class cabins, including the provision of in-seat charging facilities, will add greater convenience and connectivity for our valued passengers.
This is a phased transformation, and as the project progresses, our passengers will experience tangible improvements in cabin comfort, functionality, and the overall onboard environment. We are committed to ensuring that PIA’s long-haul product continues to evolve in line with contemporary aviation standards and the expectations of our passengers.
Shahenshah Alvi | Dy. General Manager – Technical Programs
“Upgrading our Boeing 777s takes great partners, solid planning, and a serious commitment to comfort. Alongside Aerotec, we’re giving our aircraft a fresh new look and a better onboard experience. We’re aiming for safer, smarter and more comfortable journeys and hopefully, the only complaint we’ll hear is that the flight ended too soon.”
Frank Kusserow, CEO of Aerotec Group, said:
“We are honored to support Pakistan International Airlines in this important cabin modernization program. PIA’s decision to invest in the comfort and quality of its long-haul passenger experience is a strong signal, and we are proud that the Aerotec Group can contribute its combined aftermarket and refurbishment capabilities to this project.”
The project also reflects the increasing relevance of refurbishment and lifecycle extension within the aviation aftermarket. By upgrading existing cabin interior assets through professional refurbishment, modification and technical coordination, airlines can enhance passenger comfort while making efficient use of valuable aviation material.
Hemal Bharadva, VP Operations LIF & Engineering at aviationscouts, part of the Aerotec Group, said:
“Cabin refurbishment projects of this scale require precise coordination between material planning, engineering, logistics and project execution. With this program, we are bringing together our aircraft interiors expertise, supply chain partners and the wider capabilities within the Aerotec Group to support PIA with a structured and reliable retrofit solution.”
Beyond the immediate cabin retrofit scope, the project also demonstrates the wider capabilities being developed across the Aerotec Group. With material services, technical services and digital lifecycle solutions working increasingly closely together, the Group is positioning itself to support airlines, lessors and aviation partners across multiple phases of the aircraft lifecycle – from cabin projects and component support to aircraft transition, documentation and asset management.
Bastian Breitenmoser, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Aerotec Group, said:
“The PIA project is a strong example of why we are building the Aerotec Group as an integrated aviation services platform. By bringing material expertise, technical capabilities and digital lifecycle support closer together, we can take on larger and more complex projects and create real value for our customers.”
The PIA B777 cabin modernization project is expected to further strengthen the Aerotec Group’s position in the international aviation aftermarket and marks a significant milestone for aviationscouts as part of the Group’s growing material and cabin interior services portfolio.
About PIA
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is the national flag carrier of Pakistan. Headquartered in Karachi, the airline serves key domestic and international routes across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Grounded in a 70 year legacy of hospitality and ongoing operational modernization, PIA provides scheduled passenger transport, air cargo solutions, and specialized airport ground handling services across Pakistan.