KARACHI – A strategic alliance of top business leaders has come together to launch a world-class airline, Air Karachi, an airline, which will have its headquarters in the country’s financial hub Karachi, with aim to fill the significant gap in Pakistan’s commercial aviation sector.
Air Karachi initiative is backed by a group of influential corporate investors, including FPCCI President Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, who is a key shareholder in the venture. Other notable investors include prominent names such as Mr. S. M. Tanveer, Patron-in-Chief of UBG; Mr. Aqeel Karim Dhedhi, Chairman of AKD Group; Mr. Arif Habib, Chairman of AHL; and industrialists like Mr. Bashir Janmohammad and Mr. Zubair Tufail, former President of FPCCI.
Atif Sheikh said the new airline secured an initial investment of Rs. 5 billion, with plans for further funding to support fleet expansion, infrastructure development, and the introduction of both domestic and international routes.
In first phase, three aircraft will start domestic flights, and international operations are on card for near future. Speaking on the airline’s vision, Mr. Sheikh emphasized that Air Karachi will operate on a model focused on operational efficiency and profitability, steering clear of price gouging or profiteering. The airline aims to provide competitive pricing while ensuring high-quality services, including passenger safety, timely schedules, in-flight comfort, and top-notch customer service.
“We are committed to adhering to international standards in every aspect of the airline’s operation,” said Mr. Sheikh. “Our goal is to provide a service that is reliable, safe, and customer-focused, ensuring growth and sustainability for the long term.”
Air Karachi announcement comes at a time when Pakistan’s national carrier PIA is facing challenges, and the country lacks competitive commercial airline that meets international standards. Mr. Sheikh stressed that having an airline of global standing is crucial for attracting foreign investment and boosting tourism, which has the potential to generate billions of dollars annually for the economy.
Air Karachi is registered with Securities & Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and aims to regain Pakistan’s place on lucrative international aviation routes, once dominated by the country’s national airline.
