Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: The Boeing Company has shown interest in the conversion of Pakistan International Airlines’ (PIA’s) existing 777-300 ERs into the new 787 Dreamliner – an airplane with the right size, unique capabilities, and unmatched passenger experience.

The interest was shown in a letter written by Boeing’s Commercial Airlines Vice Chairman, President and CEO Ray Conner to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, according to statement issued by the PM’s Office on Wednesday.

According to reports, driven by the recent race in Pakistan’s aviation market particularly after the launch of the Premier Service on Independence Day, the Boeing has shown keen interest in transforming the PIA’s operations in order to help restore its profits. The Boeing has had a long relationship with PIA, dating back to the 1960s that continues today with the Boeing 777. The Boeing Company president expressed the views that they see a viable opportunity to convert the PIA’s existing 777-300 ERs into the new 787 Dreamliner, which will help PIA expanding its Premium Service into Europe and the heart of Asia

The Boeing president urged the prime minister to work with the company to complete the substitution process, enabling PIA to operate the most technologically advanced aircraft in the world. The Boeing is vested in the success of the PIA and assures its fullest support in this regard, Ray Conner reiterated.

The prime minister has directed the quarters concerned to consider the proposal within the legal framework in vogue. He said the steps taken by the government for uplifting the national flag carrier have started yielding benefits as well as immense opportunities for reviving the glory of PIA that used to be one of the best airlines in the world.

The offer from the leading companies like the Boeing, that has a historical track record, is a testimony to our endeavors in making PIA one of the best airlines in the world, the prime minister said.