LAHORE – Punjab government’s luxury jet worth Rs10 billion of Punjab is set to be handed over to Pakistan Air Force as Punjab’s VIP Flight Wing lacks the technical capacity to independently manage the Gulfstream G500.
The multibillion-rupee luxury aircraft is set to come under operational management of Pakistan Air Force (PAF), following cabinet decision that has renewed attention on the Gulfstream G500’s staggering cost, expensive upkeep and its earlier use by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for a trip to London.
Documents shared to Punjab cabinet reveal that the provincial government’s own VIP Flight Wing does not have the specialised technical expertise or facilities needed to independently manage the sophisticated aircraft. Cabinet records show that the decision to involve the Pakistan Air Force was prompted by the complex technical demands of the Gulfstream G500.
The business jet relies on advanced aviation technology and requires specialised maintenance infrastructure, experienced engineers and properly trained personnel to meet operational and safety standards. Punjab’s existing aviation wing reportedly lacks sufficient resources to handle these responsibilities without external assistance.
Pakistan Air Force, which possesses established aviation facilities and technical capabilities, has therefore been entrusted with maintaining the aircraft and overseeing its operational management. Officials expect the arrangement to ensure uninterrupted flight readiness, enhanced safety and 24-hour aircraft availability.
The cabinet also authorised the deregistration of the Gulfstream G500 from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and its subsequent allocation of a military tail number by the PAF, subject to relevant regulatory requirements. Three serving air force pilots have already been deputed to the provincial government and will work alongside Punjab’s existing pilots to conduct flight operations.
A draft Memorandum of Understanding has received cabinet approval, establishing the framework for maintenance, technical support and financial obligations between the two sides. Additional Secretary (Welfare) of the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) has been empowered to sign the agreement on behalf of Punjab.
The provincial administration has not yet publicly commented on the latest development or disclosed the detailed financial implications of transferring the jet’s operational responsibilities.
The Gulfstream G500 first attracted made headlines when reports emerged that Punjab had acquired the aircraft for approximately Rs10 billion. The jet was around seven years old when details of its purchase surfaced. The aircraft reportedly reached Lahore on December 28, 2025, before completing its first domestic flight from Lahore to Multan on February 6, 2026.
