PUNJAB: The Punjab provincial government has announced that its flagship airline, Air Punjab, will begin operations in April with its first commercial flight, even as controversy surrounds the acquisition of a luxury aircraft linked to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
Officials confirmed that the airline will start with a fleet of seven passenger aircraft, initially operating on domestic routes for the first two years, with plans for international flights in the future. Preparations for the launch are reportedly being expedited under the direction of the chief minister.
The Punjab provincial cabinet approved the creation of Air Punjab (Private) Limited in November 2025, with the company formally registered at the Lahore Company Registration Office on July 24, 2025.
Government sources clarified that the chief minister’s helicopter will be integrated into the Air Punjab fleet as its first operational asset. No additional aircraft will be acquired solely for VIP use; instead, CM Sharif, cabinet members, and senior officials will travel on Air Punjab flights, paying full commercial fares. Officials emphasized that all flights, existing and new, will operate commercially, ensuring no extra financial burden on the provincial exchequer.
The announcement comes amid growing criticism on social media regarding the purchase of a Gulfstream G500 luxury jet, valued at around Rs10–11 billion. Critics have alleged that the jet was bought for VIP use rather than commercial purposes. Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari defended the acquisition, stating that the plane is part of Air Punjab’s fleet.
However, former federal finance minister Miftah Ismail disputed the government’s claims, arguing that luxury jets are economically unviable for commercial airlines and asserting that the 16-seater jet was intended primarily for VIP use. Social media users have also compared the jet purchase with the recent privatization of Pakistan International Airlines, pointing out that while the national carrier sold for Rs10 billion, the provincial government spent a similar amount on a single luxury plane.
To support operational readiness, the Punjab government has advertised senior management positions for Air Punjab, including CEO, COO, and CFO roles, signaling progress toward the airline’s launch.
The airline is set to mark a new chapter in provincial aviation, though questions about its initial fleet choices continue to draw public attention and debate.
