a new airline, Karachi Air is finalizing agreements to lease aircraft to be formally launched this summer, sources say
LAHORE:
Two new cargo and passenger airlines from Pakistan are soon to begin 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.
Carrier TCS is also bringing a Boeing 747-400 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 aircraft.
With this development, the growth of air cargo in Pakistan and from Pakistan to international destinations is expected to increase significantly.
In the past, foreign airlines dominated the air cargo sector, but local companies are now entering the market and becoming stakeholders.
Initially, Karachi Air will start domestic flights to Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Sukkur, Multan, Quetta and Peshawar. After a year, the airline is also expected to be able to operate on international routes.
Sources said that between 90,000 and 100,000 passengers travel daily from Pakistan, who currently depend on Fly Jinnah, PIA and various foreign airlines, including those from UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and others.
A PAA spokesman said all necessary facilities are being provided to the new airlines.
