ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United States have discussed the best available options for the acquisition of 16 new aircraft for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) during a high-level meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Boeing Global President Brendan Nelson in Washington.

According to an official statement, Mohsin Naqvi, accompanied by a delegation led by Arif Habib Corporation, visited Boeing’s headquarters where both sides held detailed discussions on the proposed aircraft deal.

The meeting focused on identifying the most suitable options for the procurement of 16 new aircraft as part of the government’s efforts to modernise and expand the national flag carrier’s fleet.

Naqvi thanked Boeing Global President Brendan Nelson for assuring full cooperation in expediting the acquisition process and appreciated Boeing’s leading role in the global aviation manufacturing industry.

The discussions come as Pakistan moves ahead with plans to strengthen PIA’s operational capacity and improve its international services under the airline’s new management.

Separately, former Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Tewolde Gebremariam has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Pakistan International Airlines. He is widely recognised for transforming Ethiopian Airlines into Africa’s largest carrier by significantly expanding its international network and establishing Addis Ababa as a major aviation hub.

Earlier this month, PIA also launched direct flights between Lahore and Manchester as part of its strategy to expand international operations. The inaugural flight, PK-709, departed from Lahore on July 11 with 325 passengers on board following a ceremony at Allama Iqbal International Airport.