ISLAMABAD: There will be one more private airline company operating within the domestic airspace of Pakistan after July 16 when South Air begins its commercial flights. It will connect six cities with the use of a modern fleet of turboprops and the intention to fly to those regions that lack aviation services.
“South Air will not only mean the introduction of another airline in the country, but rather it is a national mission to enhance air connectivity of the nation.
Nishat Fatima, CEO, South Air
Six Routes in Two Route Categories
Two different route categories for the South Air domestic flight service initiated by Pakistan include the following from day one:
Scheduled routes initially:
- Karachi – Islamabad
- Islamabad – Bahawalpur
- Karachi – Bahawalpur
Simultaneously scheduled routes:
- Karachi – Gwadar
- Karachi – Sukkur
- Karachi – Rahim Yar Khan
This difference is significant because the Karachi-Islamabad route puts South Air into direct rivalry with PIA, Air Arabia Pakistan, and AirSial within Pakistan’s busiest air route – one that requires the airline to compete in terms of pricing, reliability, and efficiency.
The Gwadar, Sukkur, and Rahim Yar Khan air routes constitute a new strategy whereby one can access areas where there is very little air competition, link up towns with the economic center of Karachi, and cater to the business, tourist, and education travel needs which force people to undertake lengthy road trips.
The ATR 72-600 – The Perfect Aircraft for Such Routes
The South Air domestic airline in Pakistan is well aware of the importance of route planning while forming its fleet.
Its benefits for regional flights in Pakistan are as follows:
- Fuel economy: the turboprop engine requires much less fuel than a jet engine in short sectors.
- Short field capability: allows flying from airfields that have shorter runways and cannot be used by jets.
- Reliability: The ATR 72-600 is considered one of the most reliable regional aircraft on the market, with maintenance facilities that were built up according to the design of the aircraft itself.
- Certification: EASA and FAA certified, which guarantees compliance with international safety standards.
Tourism Partnership Indicates Higher Aspirations
South Air domestic flights service for Pakistan saw a MoU agreement signed between the airline and Dream World Destination Hotels and Golf Course — a sign of the airline’s intention to become part of the overall tourism strategy in Pakistan rather than simply a point-to-point transportation provider.
This agreement means that South Air and Dream World would jointly offer travel packages and special discounts for tourists in order to promote tourism in Pakistan.
Nayab Fatima is a media professional specializing in fact-based journalism, research, and analytical reporting on technology, telecom, aviation, and automobiles.
