Air Karachi is set to introduce Chinese-manufactured passenger aircraft into domestic flight operations — a move expected to reduce ticket prices by up to 40%, according to Chairman Hanif Gauhar.
Speaking to reporters, Hanif Gauhar revealed that Chinese aircraft cost nearly half the price of Airbus and Boeing models, significantly lowering lease expenses for the airline. “Due to the lower cost of Chinese planes, we’ll be able to pass the benefit on to passengers through substantial fare reductions,” he said.
The airline plans to launch domestic flights using Chinese aircraft in the initial phase. Gauhar added that Chinese pilots will operate the planes initially, while efforts are underway to train Pakistani pilots and bring flight simulators and reserve engines for these aircraft into the country.
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“We are in close coordination with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and they have raised no objections regarding the use of Chinese aircraft. They are prepared to grant us permission,” Gauhar confirmed.
Civil Aviation officials have also confirmed that there is no regulatory barrier preventing Air Karachi from bringing in Chinese planes.
