Karachi: Pakistani private airline Air Indus has officially announced its return to the skies after remaining inactive for more than 11 years. The airline is preparing to resume domestic flight operations before expanding its network to several Gulf destinations in the second phase of its revival.
According to details shared on the airline’s official website, Air Indus is in the final stages of preparations to relaunch its services with a fleet comprising modern narrow-body jet aircraft and ATR 72-600 turboprops.
The airline had suspended all flight operations on July 1, 2015.
Domestic Flights to Begin First
Air Indus will initially focus on Pakistan’s domestic market, operating from its main hub in Karachi.
As part of the first phase, the airline plans to launch:
- Three daily flights between Karachi and Islamabad
- Two daily flights between Karachi and Lahore
In addition, the carrier intends to expand services from Karachi to Peshawar, Sialkot, Quetta, Gwadar, Faisalabad, Multan, and Skardu. It also plans to operate flights between Quetta and Islamabad.
The airline says its renewed operations will prioritize on-time performance, passenger safety, and improved customer service.
International Expansion Planned
Following the successful launch of domestic services, Air Indus aims to expand internationally by introducing flights to key destinations across the Gulf region.
The proposed international network includes services from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar to:
- Dubai
- Abu Dhabi
- Riyadh
- Jeddah
- Dammam
- Doha
- Kuwait City
- Muscat
The airline clarified that all international routes will commence only after receiving approvals from the relevant civil aviation authorities.
Modern Fleet to Support Growth
To support its expansion plans, Air Indus will operate a modern fleet of fuel-efficient narrow-body jet aircraft, which will initially serve domestic routes before being deployed on regional international services.
The airline also confirmed plans to induct ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft in a later phase. These aircraft will be used to improve connectivity for smaller cities and enhance air travel to Pakistan’s northern and remote regions.
Air Indus described its return as the outcome of extensive planning and said it is committed to delivering safe, reliable, and high-quality air travel while strengthening Pakistan’s aviation sector.
