Dhaka: Pakistan will soon start producing commercial aircraft for domestic and international markets, a senior official said.

Air Marshal Ahmer Shahzad of the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) told media during the Dubai Airshow 2017 that the planned aircraft will have a seating capacity of 10 to 30 passengers and will serve both executive and non-executive purposes.

“As economic activity picks up with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, we require fast and efficient air transportation to meet domestic demand. We are also looking at international markets in the Middle East and Central Asia,” Shahzad said.

The Pakistan Aeronautical Complex, a Pakistani aerospace, defence, and aviation contractor, produces aerial systems for both military and civilian use. Shahzad said work on the commercial plane project is expected to start soon.

Commenting on competition in the commercial aircraft sector, Shahzad highlighted PAC’s experience with the Super Mushshak, which he said is being sold successfully despite market competition.

“If we make it cost-effective, with sustained logistics and maintenance, it will be attractive to international customers,” he said.

The aircraft will be produced at PAC’s headquarters in Kamra. Shahzad also revealed plans to resume production of more advanced unmanned aerial vehicles.

When asked about potential orders for the JF-17 Thunder and Super Mushshak, he said PAC is seeking new markets in the Middle East and Far East. “There are a number of potential buyers for the Super Mushshak, which is also used for training.

We are meeting the requirements of the Pakistan Air Force and can manufacture aircraft for export. Currently, annual JF-17 production is 20 aircraft,” he said.

PAC has already signed export deals with Turkey, Qatar, Nigeria, and Azerbaijan.

-B