Karachi – The business community of Karachi has taken a significant step toward launching a new airline, “Air Karachi,” by submitting an application to obtain a license for the proposed airline. This marks the formal initiation of the process, as confirmed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Karachi-based businessman Hanif Gohar revealed in an interview with a local news channel that the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has already registered the airline. An application for its operational license has been sent to the federal government for approval.
Initial Operations and Leadership
According to Gohar, the airline plans to commence operations by leasing three aircraft. The project has appointed Air Marshal Imran (Southern Command) as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Air Karachi, bringing experienced leadership to the venture.
Prominent Investors and Investment Details
The ambitious project has attracted notable investors, including Aqeel Karim Dhedhi, Arif Habib, SM Tanveer, Bashir Jan Muhammad, Khalid Tawab, Zubair Tufail, and Hamza Tabani. Collectively, the shareholders have pooled an investment of Rs 5 billion, with each shareholder contributing Rs 50 million.
Anticipated Approval and Economic Impact
Air Karachi is expected to secure government approval shortly, paving the way for the airline to officially launch its services.
The initiative is part of a broader trend in Pakistan’s aviation industry, with the CAA reporting a rise in applications for airline licenses. Officials describe this surge as a positive economic indicator, likely to:
- Boost foreign exchange earnings
- Create employment opportunities
- Enhance the aviation sector
Current Landscape of Pakistani Airlines
Air Karachi will join the existing ranks of private airlines in Pakistan, which include Airblue, AirSial, and SereneAir, alongside the national carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).
This initiative reflects growing confidence in Pakistan’s economy and is poised to expand the aviation landscape of the country.
