Adrian Hamilton-Manns Takes Charge as PIA’s New CEO

Karachi — The leadership change at Pakistan International Airlines is now complete. Adrian Hamilton-Manns formally took charge as the national carrier’s chief executive officer on Monday, November 2. PIA’s board announced the appointment the same day, describing it in a statement on social media as a pivotal chapter in the airline’s ongoing transformation.

Board announcement, a new chapter

According to PIA, Hamilton-Manns brings a wealth of leadership and strategic experience from the global aviation sector, and his appointment marks a turning point in the carrier’s transformation. His name had surfaced last month, when he was reported as PIA’s next chief; with the formalities now complete, he has taken up the job in earnest.

Experience of running three airlines

Hamilton-Manns has spent more than 30 years in aviation and has served as chief executive of three airlines. He is regarded as a world expert in transforming and reviving carriers. Before joining PIA, he led Oman’s low-cost airline SalamAir, a role he took up in July 2024, and he previously headed Kazakhstan’s FlyArystan. He is a New Zealander.

Tribute to the outgoing chief

He succeeds Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat, who led PIA for four and a half years. The board and the consortium thanked the outgoing chief for his service and dedication in what it called a vital national role. The final notable moment of Hayat’s tenure came on Sunday, when PIA’s first Boeing 787 Dreamliner arrived in Islamabad.

First major change since privatisation

The appointment is among the first major leadership changes since PIA’s privatisation. The airline was sold through an auction in December 2025, and a consortium led by Arif Habib took over its management on June 29, 2026. For the new chief, the test now is carrying the airline’s commercial revival and transformation forward.