Pakistan’s New Private Airline Air Karachi Set to Launch in 2025

In a major step toward reshaping Pakistan’s aviation landscape, Air Karachi, a new private airline headquartered in the country’s largest city, has officially received its Regular Public Transport (RPT) license from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This milestone brings the business-backed carrier closer to takeoff — quite literally — with its inaugural flights expected between September and October 2025.

A Business-Driven Vision

Air Karachi is not just another airline. Modeled after the success of Air Sial, the new carrier is the brainchild of some of Karachi’s leading business figures who aim to create a commercially efficient and financially independent airline — a response to the persistent struggles of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

The vision is clear: build a carrier that is lean, responsive, and customer-focused, without the bureaucratic hurdles that often slow down state-run enterprises.

“We are preparing for takeoff,” says the airline’s under-construction website — a message that perfectly captures the spirit of this startup venture.

What’s Happening Now?

According to Hanif Gohar, one of the airline’s key stakeholders, Air Karachi received its RPT license on June 5, and the team is now actively working on acquiring aircraft. The airline plans to start operations with three aircraft, gradually expanding its fleet to seven over time.

In compliance with the National Aviation Policy 2023, the airline must meet certain financial requirements before launch, including:

• A license issuance fee of Rs500,000

• A security deposit of Rs100 million

• A paid-up capital of at least Rs600 million

Air Karachi also plans to raise a total of Rs5 billion by pooling investments from 100 shareholders, each contributing Rs50 million.

Who’s Behind Air Karachi?

The airline is being led by Air Vice Marshal (r) Imran Qadir, a seasoned aviation professional and former officer of the Pakistan Air Force, now serving as Chief Operating Officer. He is backed by a core team of ex-PAF officials, bringing decades of operational experience to the table.

Domestic First: Air Karachi Route Network

At launch, Air Karachi will operate flights on major domestic routes, making air travel more accessible between Pakistan’s key cities. The initial destinations are expected to include:

• Lahore ⇄ Karachi

• Islamabad ⇄ Karachi

• Quetta ⇄ Karachi

These city pairs will ensure strong north-south connectivity, with a focus on business and government hubs — similar to the domestic-first approach seen with Fly Jinnah.

Air Karachi plans to grow its domestic footprint before venturing into international skies, particularly the Middle East, after completing the mandatory one-year domestic run.

Air Karachi's Logo

Air Karachi Transparent Logo in PNG

So, When Will Air Karachi Fly?

If all goes according to plan — aircraft acquisition, financial finalization, and regulatory compliance — Air Karachi is poised to launch commercial operations between September and October 2025.

For now, passengers and aviation watchers alike are eagerly awaiting updates as Pakistan’s newest airline inches closer to takeoff.

Stay tuned — Karachi’s skies are about to get a little busier. ✈️