Aviation sector experts want permission to fly on more routes

Shaheen Air chairman says it will help expand operations of all airlines.

KARACHI: It is high time that Pakistan moves to promote tourism to boost the aviation industry. The government should permit airlines to fly on more routes, which would not only expand airlines’ operations but would also provide more flying options to its customers, said aviation industry experts at a seminar.

Shaheen Air International (SAI) organised the aviation conference in Islamabad themed “Let’s make aviation better” on Thursday.

Speaking at the conference, Shaheen Air Chairman Kashif Sehbai said that due to various reasons, Pakistan’s aviation sector has taken a hit due to which many international airlines have closed their operations in the last 10 years. “Our Pakistani-based airlines didn’t get a chance to expand their operations much outside the country,” he complained.



“It is high time that we move to tourism and use what nature has bestowed upon us in benefit of our country to attract tourists, which is not only good in terms of business but will also help build a positive global image of Pakistan,” the chairman added.

The airline has been increasing its routes both domestically and internationally by bringing in new investment and adding new aircraft to its fleet.

Sehbai requested representatives of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to support the airline by giving permissions to fly on more routes which would help them expand operations and provide more flying options to its customers.

Representatives from Pakistan Army, Navy and Air force said that they have committed to improving the security situation in the country for the betterment of the aviation industry, which will further stabilise the economy.



Representatives from CAA, Shaheen Air and airline partners said they will keep their differences aside and work together for a better future of the aviation sector in Pakistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 29^th, 2017.

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