Air Karachi Launches Domestic Flights
As Air Karachi prepares to take to the skies, the airline's focus on affordability, reliability, and customer-focused service is expected to make it a popular choice among travelers, and its expansion plans are likely to have a positive impact on Pakistan's economy and tourism industry.
Pakistan's new private airline, Air Karachi, is set to launch domestic flight operations with a fleet of three leased aircraft and an initial investment of Rs5 billion, aiming to enhance connectivity across the country and lay the groundwork for global operations.
Backed by Karachi's top business leaders, including Aqeel Karim Dhedhi and Arif Habib, Air Karachi has received its Regular Public Transport (RPT) licence from the Civil Aviation Authority, allowing it to plan for launch and paving the way for an air operator's certificate (AOC) to begin commercial flight operations. The airline promises affordability, reliability, and customer-focused service as its core values.
The RPT licence was granted after the airline's promoters met minimum capital requirements, explained ownership and control structure, and provided details on aircraft fleet, safety systems, and personnel qualifications. Air Karachi plans to start domestic flights "in the near future" and expand to international routes, but still needs to secure aircraft and an AOC.
With a start-up funding of PKR5 billion (USD17.7 million) and plans to lease three aircraft, Air Karachi is a joint venture between Pakistani corporate investors led by Atif Ikram Sheikh, and is expected to play a significant role in enhancing Pakistan's aviation industry and providing better connectivity to underserved cities and key business travel corridors.