Key points
- A new private airline based in Karachi has been granted its RPT license by CAA
- Airline is modelled on the success of Air Sial
- The move is likely to increase competition in Pakistan’s aviation industry
ISLAMABAD: A new private airline based in Karachi, Pakistan, has been granted its Regular Public Transport (RPT) license by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), one of its key stakeholders said on Monday.
Arab News cited the key stakeholder as expressing hope that the carrier would begin operations soon.
According to The Express Tribune, the airline, named Air Karachi, is headed by leading business figures from Karachi and is modelled on the success of Air Sial.
Pakistan’s aviation industry
Arab News cited Hanif Gohar, one of the airline’s shareholders as saying, “Yes, we got the license from CAA. “We are looking for aircraft and will start with three aircraft soon.”
He said Air Karachi was issued the RPT license by the CAA on June 5.
He said that aviation veteran Air Vice Marshal (retired) Imran Qadir had been appointed chief operating officer of the airline, supported by a team of retired Pakistan Air Force officials, Arab News reported.
The launch of Air Karachi is likely to increase competition in Pakistan’s aviation industry, offering more travel options for passengers and creating new jobs.
The airline’s entry follows a recent trend of new private carriers seeking licenses, reflecting growing demand for improved air travel services in the country, local media reported.
