In a game-changing move for Pakistan’s aviation sector, domestic airfares are expected to drop by up to 40 percent as Air Karachi introduces Chinese passenger planes to its fleet.
Chairman of Air Karachi, Hanif Gauhar, stated that the airline is all set to fly Chinese-made COMAC C919 aircraft on domestic routes, bringing a major shift in affordability for passengers.
The decision is driven by the comparatively low cost of Chinese aircraft, which are nearly half the price of Boeing and Airbus models.
Gauhar explained that due to the lower purchase and lease costs, operational expenses will significantly decrease – enabling the airline to offer cheaper tickets to the general public.
“Our goal is to make air travel accessible. A 40 percent price reduction will make a big difference for domestic travelers,” he stated.
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To start operations, the aircraft will be piloted by Chinese crews, as Pakistani pilots are not yet trained for the COMAC C919.
“We are working on bringing simulators and reserve engines to Pakistan so local pilots can begin training soon,” Gauhar added.
The COMAC C919, a modern narrow-body jet, can accommodate up to 150 passengers at a time. Its arrival marks the first time Chinese commercial jets will fly in Pakistan’s airspace under a domestic airline’s operation.
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has reportedly raised no objections to the plan. Gauhar confirmed that CAA is ready to issue necessary permissions, saying, “There is full support for innovation in the aviation sector.”
