PIA picks former Ethiopian Airlines chief as new CEO to lead turnaround

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has picked former Ethiopian Airlines chief Tewolde Gebremariam as its new chief executive officer, media reports said on Saturday, citing officials.

Tewolde is widely credited with transforming Ethiopian Airlines into Africa's largest carrier, expanding its network through its hub in Addis Ababa and connecting destinations across the continent.

His appointment is expected to strengthen efforts by the Arif Habib Group-led consortium, which took control of PIA after its privatization in December, to turn around the loss-making airline that had accumulated more than $2.8 billion in losses over the years.

Citing officials, the reports said that Tewolde had been selected for the top position but the airline would announce the appointment only after all required security clearances are completed.

A major shareholder of the airline also confirmed the appointment, describing Tewolde as an experienced executive with a strong record of leading successful turnarounds.