Punjab’s Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Azma Bukhari, has announced major developments for the province, revealing plans to launch Air Punjab airline and a high-speed bullet train service.
During a press conference, Bukhari shared that Air Punjab is expected to begin operations within eight months to a year. Initially, four aircraft will be leased to start the airline’s services.
She also announced the introduction of a bullet train, which will be launched in collaboration with Pakistan Railways. Additionally, six more routes across Punjab will soon be served by high-speed trains.
Bukhari expressed confidence that within five years, Punjab would lead all provinces in development, emphasizing that it would become the first province to operate its own airline. She also mentioned a complete revamp of Punjab’s railway system, including the addition of high-speed, bullet, and glass trains.
Previously, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had hinted at the possibility of launching a provincial airline, and Azma Bukhari’s announcement has now confirmed those plans.
In related developments, earlier this year, a private venture named ‘Air Karachi’ applied for a Regular Public Transport (RPT) license with the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) to begin operations across various cities.
Sources within the PCAA stated that the authority would issue the license upon federal government approval. Once the license is granted, Air Karachi will begin its flight operations. The airline is already registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP).
Karachi’s business community had previously announced the establishment of Air Karachi, with businessman Hanif Gohar confirming an initial investment of Rs 5 billion, with shareholders contributing Rs 50 million each.
Retired Air Vice Marshal Imran has been appointed CEO of Air Karachi. The airline plans to start with three leased aircraft. Key investors include Aqeel Karim Dhedhi, Arif Habib, SM Tanveer, Bashir Jan Muhammad, Khalid Tawab, Zubair Tufail, and Hamza Tabani.
