Air Karachi Officially Launched as Pakistan’s Newest Private Airline

KARACHI: Air Karachi, Pakistan’s newest private airline, has been formally launched at Karachi’s Old Airport, marking a significant addition to the country’s aviation industry and reviving Karachi’s historic identity in the skies.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman Hanif Gohar announced that the airline has been established by 42 partners, highlighting a shared vision to strengthen Karachi’s aviation legacy.

“We pledged to launch an airline under Karachi’s name, and today that promise has been fulfilled,” Gohar said. He noted that the journey began in 2006 when he first applied for an airline license, achieving success after years of planning and determination.

Gohar praised Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for encouraging investment and economic revival in Pakistan, saying Air Karachi reflects the national effort to empower local industries.

Air Karachi, Pakistan’s new private airline in the making, has engaged the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) for the supply of airliners to start its flight operations, the group chairman Hanif Gohar told foreign media.

He said Air Karachi would initially fly three aircraft domestically, and the fleet would later be expanded with four more planes to start international flights within a year.

The idea to launch a business-backed airline was conceived to develop an entity that can operate with efficiency and financial autonomy amid growing challenges faced by PIA.

Government Pledges Support to New Airline:

Secretary of Defence Muhammad Ali congratulated the business community behind Air Karachi, stating that Karachi’s entrepreneurs have once again made the country proud.

He assured full government support for Air Karachi as well as existing aviation players to boost sector-wide growth.

He emphasized that the airline’s planned collaboration with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) would strengthen overall operational capacity and efficiency in the nation’s aviation ecosystem.

Air Karachi applied for a Regular Public Transport (RPT) license with the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) in February 2025. According to PCAA sources, approval will be granted after a go-ahead from the federal government. The airline is already registered with the SECP and awaits final clearance to begin flight operations.

Initial Investment: Rs 5 billion

Shareholding Contribution: Each partner invested Rs 50 million

CEO: Former Southern Commander (retd) Air Vice Marshal Imran

Initial Fleet: Three leased aircraft

Prominent shareholders include Aqeel Karim Dhedhi, Arif Habib, SM Tanveer, Bashir Jan Muhammad, Khalid Tawab, Zubair Tufail, and Hamza Tabani.

Affordable Travel with Chinese Aircraft

Gohar confirmed that the airline will operate Chinese aircraft, stating that “Chinese planes cost nearly half of Airbus or Boeing, reducing lease costs and making tickets cheaper for passengers.”

Initially, Chinese pilots will operate the fleet, with plans underway to bring flight simulators and spare engines to Pakistan. The Civil Aviation Authority has shown no objections to the aircraft.

The flagship aircraft, the C919, will seat 150 passengers, offering a modern, cost-effective travel option designed to make flying more affordable for millions — especially Karachi residents.

 

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