Dhaka: The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has finalized preparations to clear two new Pakistani airlines, one passenger and one cargo operator, to begin operations in the coming months, according to airport sources.

A new carrier, Karachi Air, has completed plans to lease aircraft and is expected to formally launch services in May or June 2026. The airline plans to connect Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Sukkur, Multan, Quetta, and Peshawar in its first phase. After completing one year of operations, it expects to expand into international markets.

At the same time, logistics firm TCS is inducting a Boeing 747-400, which will initially be deployed exclusively for cargo operations. Meanwhile, K2 Airline, already active in cargo services, is expanding its fleet with another Boeing 747-400 aircraft.

With the addition of new aircraft, air cargo growth within Pakistan and on international routes is projected to increase significantly. The sector has long been dominated by foreign operators, but local companies are now positioning themselves as key stakeholders.

Industry sources estimate that between 90,000 and 100,000 passengers travel daily from Pakistan. Travelers currently rely on Fly Jinnah, Pakistan International Airlines, and several foreign carriers, including airlines from the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia.

A spokesperson for the Pakistan Airports Authority said all required facilities are being provided to support the launch and smooth operations of the new airlines.