A new private airline, Air Karachi, has officially received its Regular Public Transport (RPT) license from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), signaling a significant development in Pakistan’s aviation sector. The move comes with the formal approval of the Ministry of Defense, marking a major milestone for Karachi’s business community.
According to aviation sources, Air Karachi is backed by some of the most prominent business figures from Karachi. The founding shareholders include top investors such as Aqeel Karim Dhedhi (AKD Group), Arif Habib (Arif Habib Limited), Bashir Jan Muhammad, Khalid Tawab, Zubair Tufail, Hanif Gohar, and Hamza Tabani. Each shareholder has committed Rs50 million in seed capital, highlighting strong financial confidence in the venture.
Air Karachi: A New Chapter in Karachi’s Aviation Future
The CAA has instructed the CEO of Air Karachi Limited to deposit a security amount of Rs100 million along with a license fee of Rs500,000. In addition, the company has been directed to submit essential financial documents, including a bank statement, a chartered accountant’s certificate, and forms related to SECP, ensuring full compliance with regulatory requirements.
Flights Expected to Begin in Two Months
Aviation sources confirm that Air Karachi is expected to begin operations within the next two months. The airline aims to provide modern, efficient, and affordable air travel options while being firmly rooted in Karachi’s dynamic business landscape.
This initiative is being viewed as a promising step for Karachi’s economy, offering new job opportunities and improved connectivity for domestic and potentially regional destinations in the future.
Karachi Leads the Way in Private Aviation Investment
With Karachi-based investors taking the lead, Air Karachi becomes a symbol of the city’s growing influence in Pakistan’s aviation and transportation sectors. The launch of this airline not only reinforces Karachi’s economic prominence but also reflects the vision of its business elite in shaping the future of national infrastructure.