Two new airlines set to launch operations in Pakistan

Two new airlines – one passenger carrier and one cargo operator – are set to begin operations in Pakistan in the near future, a move expected to benefit both travellers and the industrial sector.

According to airport sources, the Pakistan Airports Authority and the relevant airlines have completed the necessary preparations.

Sources said that a new airline operating under the name “Air Karachi” has finalised arrangements to lease an aircraft and is likely to commence formal operations in May or June this year.

Initially, Air Karachi will operate domestic flights to Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Sukkur, Multan, Quetta and Peshawar. The airline also plans to expand to international routes after one year of domestic operations.

Meanwhile, significant developments have also emerged in the cargo sector. Airport sources revealed that TCS is in the process of acquiring a Boeing 747-400 series aircraft, which will initially be used exclusively for cargo operations.

Similarly, K2 Airways, which already operates cargo services, is preparing to expand its fleet by adding another Boeing 747-400 aircraft.

Sources noted that Pakistan’s air cargo market has long been dominated by foreign airlines. However, the entry of local companies is expected to increase competition and provide a boost to domestic industry and exports.

According to available figures, between 90,000 and 100,000 passengers travel daily to domestic and international destinations from Pakistan, using airlines such as Fly Jinnah, PIA and carriers from the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia.

A spokesperson for the Pakistan Airports Authority stated that all possible facilities are being extended to the new airlines to ensure that both passengers and industrial stakeholders can fully benefit from this development.