China’s aircraft manufacturer COMAC is in advanced negotiations with Pakistan’s upcoming budget airline, Air Karachi, potentially marking a major shift in the country’s aviation scene. If finalized, this partnership could bring modern, cost-effective aviation to a market heavily reliant on an underperforming national carrier.
Air Karachi, having recently secured its Regular Public Transport (RPT) license from the Civil Aviation Authority in June, is preparing to launch operations. According to a representative named Gohar, the airline is in discussions to purchase COMAC’s C919 aircraft. Talks are also underway with Boeing and Airbus to acquire at least three planes initially.
The airline’s first fleet will include three aircraft dedicated to domestic travel. Within a year, Air Karachi plans to grow its fleet to seven and begin international flights. The airline aims to keep operations lean and independent, avoiding the inefficiencies that plagued PIA.
Taking a page from Air Sial’s success, Air Karachi is also privately funded and intends to run with transparency, accountability, and a customer-first approach. COMAC’s C919 is seen as a viable alternative to Boeing and Airbus, with significantly lower costs—up to 50% less, according to Gohar. These savings could let Air Karachi cut ticket prices by 40%.
The airline also has plans for long-term infrastructure investments, including local pilot training simulators, domestic maintenance facilities, and spare parts inventories. Initially, Chinese pilots will operate the COMAC planes while Pakistani pilots complete training.
No objections have been raised by CAA regarding the Chinese aircraft, and final safety clearances are expected soon. Analysts believe this could set a trend in South Asia and the Middle East, encouraging other airlines to explore non-Western aircraft options for cost savings.
