Figure of 40 new aircraft looks exaggerated. Currently PIA has a fleet of around 40 active aircraft in its fleet which includes 9 new Boeing 777s and 7 new ATR 42-500 aircraft.
Around 24 ageing but active/airworthy aircraft in PIA fleet are:
1 x Boeing 747-200B (SCD)
6 x Boeing 737-300
5 x Boeing 747-300
12 x Airbus A310-300 (including six on dry lease from Airbus Asset Management)
PIA will need to find replacement for these 24 aircraft in coming years.
Induction of 40 new aircraft will appear logical in case of substantial growth in passenger traffic expected by the airline or for significant expansion in route network planned by the airline in coming years.
MD PIA Capt. Aijaz Haroon in September 7 Geo.tv programme 'Kehnay Main Kya Harj Hai ?' said that under revised business plan PIA will induct 16 aircraft in its fleet.
Further details like whether the these 16 aircraft will be brand new, used, leased, type of aircraft or manufacturer were not discussed/mentioned in that programme.
Earlier, PIA had plans to induct 27 aircraft in its fleet.