In a significant move to support Pakistan’s aviation sector, the federal cabinet has approved the relaxation of the National Aviation Policy (NAP) 2019, allowing Serene Air to commence international operations and enabling Airblue to continue its overseas flights. The decision was taken in light of the severe financial challenges faced by airlines globally due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under the existing policy, Article 4.5(a)(iv) requires domestic carriers to operate at least 5% of their capacity—measured as available seat kilometers—on primary and socio-economic routes. However, both Airblue and Serene Air have struggled to meet this requirement for over a year, as the pandemic disrupted the aviation industry worldwide.
Airblue, which currently operates flights to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, had been at risk of losing its international designation. Meanwhile, Serene Air has sought permission to expand its services to destinations including the UK, China, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
Acknowledging these constraints, the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) forwarded a request to relax the policy, emphasizing the importance of allowing airlines to maintain or expand international operations to sustain their business viability. Serene Air has committed to meeting NAP 2019 requirements on primary and socio-economic routes once the pandemic’s impact subsides.
The federal cabinet approved the proposal, granting Airblue and Serene Air designation for international operations with countries where Pakistan has Air Services Agreements (ASAs), including provisions for multiple airline designations. Pakistan has ASAs with 98 countries, which facilitate such arrangements.
This relaxation aligns with the vision of NAP 2019 to enhance the country’s aviation industry while adapting to unprecedented challenges. The cabinet’s decision underscores the government’s commitment to supporting local carriers in navigating the post-pandemic landscape and fostering growth in the aviation sector.
