ISLAMABAD – WEB DESK: Pakistan is set to welcome two new airlines, one focusing on passenger services and the other on cargo operations, signaling a significant boost for both travelers and the nation’s logistics sector.
According to airport sources, preparations by the Pakistan Airport Authority and the respective airlines are now complete, paving the way for imminent operations. The passenger airline, operating under the name “Air Karachi,” has finalized lease agreements for its aircraft and is expected to commence services in May or June of this year. Initially, Air Karachi will operate domestic flights connecting major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Sukkur, Multan, Quetta, and Peshawar, with plans to expand internationally within a year.
Meanwhile, in the cargo sector, significant developments are underway. TCS Express is acquiring a Boeing 747-400 aircraft exclusively for cargo operations, strengthening its domestic logistics capabilities. Similarly, SkyTwo Airlines, already active in cargo services, is expanding its fleet with an additional Boeing 747-400, aimed at enhancing freight capacity and efficiency.
Experts note that Pakistan’s cargo sector has long been dominated by foreign carriers. The entry of local airlines is expected to increase competition, lower costs, and contribute to the growth of domestic trade and exports.
Daily, approximately 90,000 to 100,000 passengers travel within Pakistan and abroad through existing carriers such as Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Fly Jinnah, and foreign airlines from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Malaysia. With the arrival of new local carriers, passengers can anticipate more flight options, improved services, and competitive fares.
A spokesperson for the Pakistan Airport Authority emphasized that every possible facility is being provided to support the new airlines, ensuring that both passengers and industry stakeholders benefit fully from this expansion.
Industry analysts describe these moves as a step toward modernizing Pakistan’s aviation infrastructure, increasing connectivity, and enhancing trade efficiency while providing greater convenience for travelers.
