Two new Pakistani airlines set to begin operations

Two new Pakistani airlines are preparing to begin flight operations, with the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) completing necessary arrangements, according to a news report. 

Karachi Air has finalised plans to lease aircraft and is expected to commence operations in May or June. The airline will initially operate domestic routes connecting Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Sukkur, Multan, Quetta and Peshawar. Sources said the carrier aims to begin international operations after one year.

In the cargo segment, TCS is inducting a Boeing 747-400 aircraft, which will be deployed exclusively for freight services. K2 Airline, which is already operating cargo flights, is also expanding its fleet by acquiring another Boeing 747-400.

With additional aircraft entering service, air cargo capacity within Pakistan and on international routes is expected to increase. The sector has traditionally been dominated by foreign carriers, but local operators are expanding their presence.

A PAA spokesperson said all required facilities are being extended to the new airlines to support the start of operations.