ISLAMABAD (Nazrana Times): Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has nominated New Zealand-born aviation executive Adrian Hamilton-Manns as its next chief executive officer. His appointment remains subject to security clearance and legal formalities and is expected to take effect by the end of October 2026.

Hamilton-Manns brings around 28 years of international aviation experience and is known for his work turning around loss-making airlines. PIA’s new management consortium, led by Arif Habib, selected him to modernise the carrier’s business structure and guide it towards profitability after years of losses.

Experience at SalamAir and FlyArystan

Hamilton-Manns most recently served as CEO of Oman’s SalamAir from July 2024 until September 2026.

Before that, he was president and CEO of Kazakhstan’s FlyArystan. During his tenure, the airline’s revenue rose from $57.4 million to $277.8 million, an increase of 384%.

He has also held senior positions at Virgin Australia, IndiGo and South African Airways.

Leadership nomination follows privatisation

The Arif Habib-led consortium took over PIA’s management on June 29, 2026, following privatisation. Hamilton-Manns’ nomination comes as the new management seeks to restructure the airline’s business and improve its financial performance.