CM Punjab Maryam presented an idea of rebranding PIA as “Air Punjab,” according to her father and PML-N President, Nawaz Sharif. During a recent meeting with party supporters in New York, Nawaz shared Maryam’s vision for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). She suggested acquiring the national carrier and transforming it into a new brand representing Punjab’s pride, aimed at improving the airline’s international reputation and operational standards.
Maryam’s Vision for Rebranding PIA as “Air Punjab”
CM Punjab Maryam wants to rebrand PIA with a fresh identity as “Air Punjab” to reinvigorate its image on the global stage. According to Nawaz, Maryam envisions the airline with new planes, connecting Pakistan to global cities like New York, London, and Tokyo. She believes that rebranding as “Air Punjab” would symbolize a new beginning for PIA and bolster provincial pride and expand the nation’s aviation industry. Nawaz noted that he encouraged Maryam to consult experts on this matter and emphasized that establishing an international airline rooted in Punjab’s identity could transform perceptions of Pakistan’s aviation sector.
Historical Context and Challenges Ahead
Nawaz Sharif expressed frustration over the mismanagement of PIA during the tenure of former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s government. He specifically criticized former aviation minister Ghulam Sarwar’s statements questioning PIA pilots’ qualifications, which he said inflicted irreparable harm on the airline’s reputation. The rebranding discussion comes as PIA faces privatization attempts, with interest recently shown by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government. The national airline, now financially burdened, has been under scrutiny, with minimal bids received in its initial privatization round. Maryam’s idea aimed at reviving the struggling airline and reestablishing Pakistan’s presence in global aviation.
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