KARACHI: Pakistan’s newest airline, Air Karachi, officially inaugurated its operations office at the Old Airport, Karachi, on Friday, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward full-scale operations.
The ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including PIA CEO Amir Hayat, Director General Civil Aviation Nadir Shafiq, diplomats, shareholders, and members of the Board of Directors.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary of Defence Lt. Gen. (Retd) Muhammad Ali, HI (M), lauded the initiative, stating, “We are striving to take Pakistan to the position envisioned by our founding leaders. The business community’s contribution is unparalleled — Karachi’s businessmen have worked not just for the city or Sindh, but to elevate Pakistan’s name globally.”
Acknowledging the challenges of launching an airline, he noted, “It’s a complex and technical venture. Some airlines came and couldn’t sustain, while others have succeeded. Air Karachi’s partnership with PIA’s engineering division will prove mutually beneficial, and we assure our full support.”
Air Karachi Chairman Hanif Gohar revealed that 42 leading businessmen joined hands to establish the airline. “This project is the realization of a long-standing dream. I first applied for an airline license in 2009, but it seems it was destined to happen now,” he said.
He emphasized the crucial role of Karachi’s business sector in national progress: “If Karachi’s business community stops working, the wheel of Pakistan’s economy will come to a halt.”
Meanwhile, Air Karachi CEO AVM (Retd) Syed Imran Majid, HI, shared that the airline has signed an MoU with PIA for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services, has obtained its Regular Public Transport (RPT) license, and is in the process of acquiring three Airbus A320 aircraft. Negotiations with international airlines are also underway to finalize operational arrangements.
