Air Punjab to take to the skies in April

Amid public debate regarding the reported acquisition of a luxury aircraft, the Government of Punjab has announced that its flagship carrier project, Air Punjab, is scheduled to commence operations in April with its inaugural commercial flight.

Officials stated that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is overseeing accelerated preparations for the launch. In its initial phase, the airline will operate a fleet of seven passenger aircraft, focusing exclusively on domestic routes for the first two years, with international expansion planned subsequently. The Punjab cabinet approved the establishment of Air Punjab Private Limited in November last year, and the company was formally incorporated with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan at the Lahore Company Registration Office on July 24, 2025.

Government representatives clarified that the chief minister’s existing helicopter will be integrated into the airline’s fleet as its first operational asset, emphasizing that no aircraft has been procured for personal or VIP use. They further stated that all official travel by the chief minister, cabinet members, and senior officials will be conducted on Air Punjab flights under a fully commercial framework, with applicable fares paid accordingly. Authorities added that a comprehensive financial strategy has been developed to ensure the airline does not impose an additional burden on the provincial treasury.

The announcement follows criticism circulating on social media regarding the reported purchase of a Gulfstream Aerospace G500 business jet, valued at approximately Rs10 to 11 billion and reportedly registered in the United States under registration number N144S. Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari dismissed allegations of personal acquisition, stating that the aircraft forms part of the broader fleet development plan for Air Punjab and that further details will be shared upon finalization.

Conversely, former federal finance minister Miftah Ismail questioned the commercial viability of inducting a luxury business jet into a passenger airline’s operations, arguing that such aircraft are not typically deployed for commercial airline services. Public discourse has also drawn comparisons with the recent privatization of Pakistan International Airlines, highlighting concerns over fiscal priorities.

Meanwhile, the provincial government has advertised key senior management positions, including Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Financial Officer, signaling continued progress toward operational readiness for Air Punjab.