In a positive development for travelers and the aviation sector, two new passenger and cargo airlines are set to begin flight operations in Pakistan in the coming months, promising increased convenience and competition in the market.
According to airport sources, the Pakistan Airports Authority and the concerned airlines have finalized all necessary preparations for the launch.
Air Karachi to Begin Domestic Operations
Sources revealed that a new airline, Air Karachi, has completed arrangements to lease aircraft and is expected to formally commence operations in May or June this year.
Initially, Air Karachi will operate domestic flights connecting major cities including Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Sukkur, Multan, Quetta, and Peshawar. The airline also plans to expand to international routes within a year of launching its domestic network.
Expansion in the Cargo Sector
Significant progress has also been reported in the cargo aviation sector. Sources indicate that courier giant TCS is acquiring a Boeing 747-400 series aircraft, which will initially be used exclusively for cargo operations.
Meanwhile, another cargo operator, K2 Airways, which is already providing freight services, is also preparing to expand its fleet by adding another Boeing 747-400 aircraft.
Industry insiders note that Pakistan’s air cargo sector has long been dominated by foreign carriers. The entry of local companies is expected to boost competition, strengthen exports, and support domestic industries.
Growing Passenger Traffic
Statistics suggest that approximately 90,000 to 100,000 passengers travel daily from Pakistan on domestic and international routes, using airlines such as Pakistan International Airlines, Fly Jinnah, and various international carriers including those from the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia.
A spokesperson for the Pakistan Airports Authority stated that full support is being extended to the new airlines to ensure smooth operations and maximize benefits for both passengers and industrial stakeholders.
