Pakistans airline unveils new uniforms for crew, gets roasted over aircraft conditions, poor services
The airline recently added three aircraft to its fleet but also reduced passenger discounts and cut some flight frequencies because of rising jet fuel costs.
PTC News Desk: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has introduced new uniforms for its flight crew as part of an effort to refresh the airline's image. However, the move has received criticism online, with many users saying the airline should focus on its financial and operational problems instead.
The new uniforms were launched at a gala event earlier this month. PIA said several well-known Pakistani designers contributed to the designs, including Maheen Khan, Deepak and Fahad, Generation, Ismail Farid, Munib Nawaz, Deepak Perwani, Faraz Manan, Amir Adnan, HSY and Nomi Ansari.
The uniforms use two main colours — deep forest green and soft grey-blue. Men's uniforms include tailored jackets, trousers and patterned ties, while women's outfits feature fitted waistcoats with matching trousers, scarves and caps.
The airline has updated its crew uniforms for the first time in around a decade.
Users question PIA's priorities
The new designs sparked mixed reactions on social media. Some users suggested further changes, while others argued that PIA should first improve its aircraft, services and passenger experience.
One user said the airline should focus on aircraft condition, service quality, customer experience and staff professionalism instead of uniforms.
Another suggested that PIA should work on issues such as aircraft maintenance, seat comfort, cleanliness, washroom facilities, entertainment systems, blankets and pillows.
Some users also said the airline needed to change its staff attitude and working culture rather than simply redesigning uniforms.
PIA faces financial challenges
The uniform launch comes as PIA continues to deal with financial and operational challenges. The airline recently added three aircraft to its fleet but also reduced passenger discounts and cut some flight frequencies because of rising jet fuel costs.
PIA has also temporarily suspended or reduced several international services amid disruptions affecting global aviation.
In April, the airline reportedly took steps to control costs, including reducing passenger discounts. Flights to the UAE were capped at 16 per week, while services to some other Gulf destinations were temporarily suspended. Flights to Beijing and Kuala Lumpur were also briefly halted.
PIA was partially privatised in December 2025, when a consortium led by the Arif Habib Group acquired a 75% stake for PKR 135 billion ($482 million).