PIA becomes first to fly B737-800 aircraft in Pakistan

Two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, wet leased by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from a Turkish operator, were put into operation from January 20. No other airline in Pakistan is currently using this aircraft, the national airline stated in a press release.

The narrow-body aircraft have a capacity of carrying 189 passengers in all-economy configuration, mentioned the statement

The aircraft have been obtained for three months and two more similar aircraft are expected to join PIA’s fleet in the coming weeks, according to the press release.

The decision has been taken so that the immediate shortage of aircraft could be ended. The shortage was created due to the grounding of four aged A-310 aircraft at the end of 2016.

Wet lease, on which the aircraft have been obtained, is an arrangement covering the hire of an aircraft, including the provision of a flight crew and sometimes fuel.