French Ambassador Jean-Noël Poirier meets PIA CEO AVM Amir Hayat; discussions focus on European connectivity, Airbus fleet, technical support and collaboration with French aviation authorities
ISLAMABAD, Friday, October 2, 2026 (WNP): French Ambassador to Pakistan Jean-Noël Poirier met Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Chief Executive Officer Air Vice Marshal Amir Hayat to discuss bilateral cooperation and opportunities to further strengthen PIA’s presence and operations in Europe.
According to PIA, the meeting reaffirmed the airline’s close partnership with France and highlighted the importance of French support in strengthening its European footprint.
PIA said its cooperation with France encompasses several areas, including technical support, access to spare parts, fleet expansion and coordination with French civil aviation authorities.
The national flag carrier also highlighted its longstanding relationship with Airbus, noting that Airbus aircraft constitute around 70 percent of PIA’s fleet.
PIA currently operates direct flights to Paris, while cooperation with France’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) remains an important component of its European aviation engagement.
The meeting reflected ongoing efforts to strengthen Pakistan-France aviation cooperation and support PIA’s operational development and connectivity with European destinations.
