Lahore: The Punjab government is set to launch its own provincial carrier, Punjab Airlines, next month, with domestic flight operations planned in the first phase, official sources confirmed.
The airline will initially operate a fleet of seven passenger aircraft, serving major routes across Pakistan. The project is being led by the administration of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, with preparations said to be moving at a rapid pace to meet the April launch timeline.
According to officials, Punjab Airlines will function as a domestic carrier for its first two years before expanding to regional and international destinations, subject to regulatory approvals and operational readiness. The airline is expected to connect provincial capitals and key urban centres during the initial phase.
As part of the rollout, the chief minister’s existing helicopter will be incorporated into the airline’s asset pool. Under the proposed operational model, Maryam Nawaz, along with provincial ministers and government officials, will travel on Punjab Airlines flights for official engagements rather than using separate government aircraft.
Authorities emphasised that the project has been structured to avoid placing an additional financial burden on the provincial treasury. Both existing and newly acquired aircraft will be used for commercial passenger services, with government travel treated strictly on a full-fare basis.
Officials said that whenever the chief minister or other government representatives travel on Punjab Airlines, the government will pay the complete ticket cost. This approach is intended to ensure that official usage does not affect the airline’s commercial viability.
The dual-use model—combining commercial passenger operations with official government travel—is designed to maximise fleet utilisation and improve revenue generation while meeting public-sector transportation needs.
The initiative forms part of the Punjab government’s broader plan to modernise transport infrastructure, improve intercity connectivity, and establish a commercially sustainable aviation entity owned and operated by the province.
Further details regarding routes, ticket pricing, and operational schedules are expected to be announced closer to the launch date.
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