By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE, December 23 — As Pakistan advances the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), aviation and financial experts are assessing the national carrier’s market value, drawing comparisons with Air India, SriLankan Airlines, and EgyptAir.
Read also: PIA employees warn of flight shutdown as privatisation protest intensifies
Air India was privatised in 2022 when the Indian government sold a majority stake to the Tata Group for approximately USD 2.4 billion. At the time, the airline faced significant financial challenges and carried a substantial debt load. Industry analysts observed that Air India’s extensive international network, landing slots at major airports, and brand recognition supported a higher long-term valuation. Following privatisation, operational restructuring and fleet renewal reportedly improved its financial and operational performance.
SriLankan Airlines, in contrast, remains government-owned and continues to experience financial strain. Analysts cited unresolved liabilities, ongoing operational losses, and limited investor interest, placing its estimated valuation below USD 500 million. Its strategic location has not fully translated into higher market value due to delayed operational reforms and governance challenges.
EgyptAir, while still under government ownership, has reportedly benefited from operational restructuring and the strategic advantage of Cairo as a regional hub connecting Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Aviation industry reports suggest its valuation exceeds USD 1 billion, supported by profitable routes and relatively stable operations.
Against this backdrop, PIA occupies an intermediate position. According to financial and aviation analysts, recent government measures—including the absorption of legacy debt, a reported return to pre-tax profitability, and restoration of UK and EU routes—have strengthened the airline’s revenue potential. Analysts currently estimate PIA’s enterprise value at USD 700- 800 million, reflecting current operational and market conditions.
Some experts further suggest that, under specific conditions, PIA’s valuation could potentially approach USD 1 billion. These conditions include sustained profitability, stable operations on European routes, monetisation of high-value landing slots, workforce and governance certainty, and transparent financial disclosures. Analysts caution that this upper-bound valuation is conditional and reflects potential future value rather than the present market price.
International comparisons indicate a consistent pattern: timely restructuring and professional management tend to preserve or enhance airline value, while prolonged delays and unresolved liabilities can reduce it. Observers emphasise that PIA’s final valuation will depend on the execution of reforms, ownership stability, and the airline’s ability to deliver sustainable operational improvements.
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