A new airline, Karachi Air, finalizes arrangements to lease aircraft, which will be formally launched this summer, sources say
LAHORE:
Two new cargo and passenger airlines of Pakistan will soon start their flight operations, for which the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has completed preparations.
According to airport sources, a new airline, Karachi Air, has finalized agreements to lease aircraft. Karachi Air is expected to formally launch its operations in May or June this year.
Cargo carrier TCS will also bring in a Boeing 747-400 series aircraft, which will initially be used exclusively for cargo operations, sources said.
Meanwhile, K2 Airline, which already operated cargo services, is expanding its operations and acquiring another Boeing 747-400 series aircraft.
With these developments, air cargo growth within Pakistan and from Pakistan to international destinations is expected to increase significantly.
Previously, foreign airlines dominated the air cargo sector, but now local companies are entering the market and becoming interested parties.
Initially, Karachi Air will start domestic flights to Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Sukkur, Multan, Quetta and Peshawar. After a year, the airline is expected to be able to operate on international routes as well.
Sources said that between 90,000 and 100,000 passengers travel daily from Pakistan, currently relying on Fly Jinnah, PIA and several foreign airlines, including those from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and others.
A PAA spokesperson said all necessary facilities are being provided to the new airlines.
