Air Punjab Set to Launch in April Amidst Luxury Jet Controversy

LAHORE – Pakistan’s Punjab province is preparing to launch Air Punjab, its novel airline, in April, despite recent controversy surrounding the reported purchase of a luxury jet for the chief minister. The airline project is moving forward with plans for both domestic and international routes.

Airline Launch and Fleet Details

Officials state that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is actively overseeing preparations for the launch of Air Punjab. The airline will initially operate a fleet of seven passenger aircraft, focusing solely on domestic routes for the first two years . International operations are planned to expand the airline’s reach following the initial phase.

Establishment and Incorporation

The Punjab cabinet approved the establishment of Air Punjab (Private) Limited in November of last year, with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif chairing the meeting. The company was officially incorporated with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) at the Lahore Company Registration Office on July 24, 2025 .

Chief Minister’s Aircraft and Cost Concerns

The provincial government intends to incorporate the Chief Minister’s existing helicopter into the Air Punjab fleet, making it the airline’s first operational asset. Officials emphasize that no separate, additional aircraft will be purchased for the Chief Minister or other VIPs. Instead, the Chief Minister, cabinet members, and senior government officials will utilize Air Punjab flights. Whenever the Chief Minister uses an Air Punjab aircraft, the full commercial fare will be paid .

This announcement comes amid public scrutiny regarding the reported acquisition of a Gulfstream G500 business jet, valued at approximately Rs10–11 billion . Critics have alleged that public funds were used to purchase the jet for official utilize.

Government Response and Counterarguments

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari has refuted these claims, stating that the aircraft is part of the fleet being developed for Air Punjab and is not intended for personal or VIP use . However, former federal finance minister Miftah Ismail has challenged this explanation, arguing that commercial airlines do not typically induct luxury business jets due to their economic impracticality.

Privatization Comparisons and Financial Strategy

Social media users have drawn comparisons between the Air Punjab jet purchase and the recent privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), noting that the jet’s reported cost exceeds the sale price of the national airline. The government maintains that a strategy has been finalized to ensure Air Punjab does not burden the provincial treasury, with all aircraft operating on a fully commercial basis .

Management Vacancies

The provincial government has advertised vacancies for key management positions within the airline, including Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Financial Officer, signaling continued progress toward operational readiness.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif is currently serving as the 19th Chief Minister of Punjab, having assumed office on February 26, 2024 .