Air Indus granted license to revive operations after 11 years
After more than a decade away from Pakistan's aviation
market, private carrier Air Indus is
preparing to return to the skies, with plans to relaunch domestic flight
operations before expanding to key destinations across the Gulf.
The airline announced that its long-awaited revival will
begin with a network of domestic services from Karachi, reconnecting passengers
to major cities including Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, Sialkot,
Faisalabad, Multan, Gwadar and Skardu. Additional flights between Quetta and
Islamabad are also planned as part of the initial phase.
Domestic First, International Next
Air Indus said it will initially deploy a modern fleet
of narrow-body jet aircraft on domestic routes and future international
services. The airline also plans to induct ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft to
improve connectivity to regional destinations, particularly Pakistan's northern
areas and other short-haul markets.
The second phase of the airline's expansion strategy
will see the launch of international flights from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad
and Peshawar to major Gulf cities, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Jeddah,
Dammam, Doha, Kuwait City and Muscat, subject to regulatory approvals.
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Returning After Regulatory Suspension
Air Indus suspended scheduled operations in 2015
following changes to Pakistan's aviation regulations that required commercial
passenger airlines to maintain a minimum fleet of three airworthy aircraft.
With its operational planning now complete, the airline
says it is ready to re-enter the market with a renewed focus on safety,
reliability and enhanced connectivity, aiming to strengthen domestic air travel
while gradually rebuilding its international network.
The return of Air Indus comes at a time of renewed activity in Pakistan's
aviation sector, as airlines continue to expand fleets, introduce new routes
and respond to growing passenger demand both within the country and across the
region.
Source: Pakistan Today