ISLAMABAD: The final bidding for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) privatization is set to take place tomorrow (Thursday) in Islamabad, according to aviation sources.

Preparations for this event have been completed at a private hotel in the capital city. Out of six potential bidders, only the Blue World City consortium has submitted an advance payment, confirmed sources from the Privatization Commission.

Bid submission and opening will both take place on the same day, adhering to the regulatory framework to ensure full compliance with legal standards, sources added.

As the government moves forward with PIA’s privatization, new demands from potential buyers regarding the airline’s workforce have surfaced.

During a Senate Privatization Committee meeting led by Senator Talal Chaudhry, it was disclosed that bidders are seeking significant changes, primarily the immediate dismissal of all employees, along with a 76 percent acquisition of PIA shares. Additionally, they expect the government to settle tax obligations.

The Privatization Commission has attempted to negotiate terms that would secure job protection for employees for at least two to three years.

However, bidders have reportedly refused to make such commitments, showing unwillingness to retain employees or assume pension liabilities. With the privatization scheduled for October 31, there has been criticism over the absence of a concrete plan to protect employee rights.