The Karachi business community has announced the launch of a new airline, Air Karachi, aimed at enhancing air travel in Pakistan. According to News, the airline has been officially registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), and a licence application has been submitted to the federal government.
Initial Operations and Leadership
In its first phase, Air Karachi plans to lease three aircraft. Retired Air Vice Marshal Imran, formerly of the Southern Command, has been appointed as the airline’s CEO.
Investment and Shareholders
Businessman Hanif Gohar revealed that the airline is launching with an investment of Rs. 5 billion, with each shareholder contributing Rs. 50 million. Prominent businessmen like Aqeel Karim Dhedhi and Arif Habib are also involved in the project.
Growing Competition in Pakistan’s Aviation Sector
This announcement comes amid a surge in aviation activity in Pakistan. Several new airlines, including Jet Green, Q Airways, and Go Green Air, have recently approached the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for licences. Additionally, Air Indus, Q Aviation, and Liberty Air are also planning to commence operations.
Boost to Economy and Passenger Options
CAA officials noted that the influx of new airlines will benefit the aviation sector, offering passengers more travel options, increasing foreign exchange, and creating job opportunities. Currently, three private airlines—Airblue, SereneAir, and AirSial—operate domestically alongside Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).
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Performance Insights from CAA
Earlier this year, the CAA released its six-month performance report for domestic airlines (July–December 2023). According to the report, PIA ranked fourth in operational efficiency, with an 89.32% on-time departure and arrival ratio, signaling room for improvement.
Future Expectations
Air Karachi is expected to begin operations soon, further intensifying competition in the aviation sector and contributing to economic growth in the region. More details about the airline’s launch and routes are anticipated in the coming months.
