new airline, Karachi Air, finalizes arrangements for aircraft leasing, to be officially launched this summer, sources say
LAHORE:
Two new cargo and passenger airlines of Pakistan are expected to start their flight operations soon for which the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has completed preparations.
According to airport sources, a new airline – Karachi Air – has finalized arrangements for leasing aircraft. Karachi Air is expected to officially launch operations in May or June this year.
Cargo company TCS will also use a Boeing 747-400, 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.
With these developments, the growth of air cargo in and from Pakistan to international destinations is expected to increase significantly.
Previously, foreign airlines dominated the air cargo sector, but local companies are now entering the market and becoming stakeholders.
Initially, Karachi Air will launch domestic flights to Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Sukkur, Multan, Quetta and Peshawar. After a year, the airline should also be able to operate on international routes.
Sources said that between 90,000 and 100,000 passengers travel daily from Pakistan, currently depending on Fly Jinnah, PIA and various foreign airlines including those of UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and others.
A PAA spokesperson said all necessary facilities were being provided to the new airlines.
