Direct Airbus flights offer shorter travel times as wet-leased turboprops drive up South Air ticket prices
KARACHI: Fly Jinnah continues to offer a substantially faster and more affordable travel option on the Karachi-Islamabad route, while South Air’s higher fares and longer journey times reflect the operational costs associated with its wet-leased turboprop fleet.
Fly Jinnah operates Airbus A320 aircraft on direct flights between Karachi and Islamabad, completing the journey in approximately one hour and 40 minutes. The airline’s Basic fare starts at around PKR 25,800 and includes only a handbag, while multiple daily departures provide passengers with greater flexibility when planning their travel.
By comparison, South Air operates ATR 72-500 and ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft on the same route under ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance) lease agreements. The service takes approximately four hours and 10 minutes because it includes a stop in Rahim Yar Khan.
Higher operating costs reflected in fares
South Air’s Economy Basic fare is approximately PKR 58,000, making it more than PKR 32,000 higher than Fly Jinnah’s entry-level ticket.
Industry observers note that ACMI leasing arrangements generally involve higher operating costs because aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance are supplied by foreign lessors under a single contract. Airlines often reflect these additional expenses in ticket prices, particularly when operating smaller aircraft with fewer available seats.
The ATR’s lower passenger capacity also contributes to a higher cost per seat compared with larger narrow-body aircraft such as the Airbus A320.
Passenger experience differs significantly
Beyond the fare difference, the two services also offer contrasting travel experiences.
The Airbus A320 provides a direct journey with a shorter flight time, lower cabin noise and greater passenger comfort, making it a preferred option for many travellers seeking convenience.
Meanwhile, South Air’s ATR service involves a longer travel duration and an intermediate stop, factors that may reduce its appeal despite serving the same city pair.
For passengers comparing value, schedule and comfort, Fly Jinnah currently offers a faster, more economical alternative on the Karachi-Islamabad route, while South Air’s pricing reflects the higher operating costs associated with its wet-leased regional turboprop operations.
Fly Jinnah’s A320 jets fly KHI–ISB direct in just 1 hour 40 minutes with Basic fares starting around PKR 25,800 (handbag only) and multiple daily options, while South Air’s wet-leased ATR 72-500/600 turboprops take 4 hours 10 minutes via a Rahim Yar Khan stop and charge roughly… pic.twitter.com/9PECMQPQ4G
— Saad (@AirlinePilotmax) July 30, 2026
