First air taxi launched in country

In a ground-breaking development, Pakistan has launched its first-ever online air taxi service, revolutionising air travel for citizens.

The innovative service allows individuals to conveniently book air travel based on their preferred time and destination.

Now, individuals can reserve an air taxi through a user-friendly mobile app, similar to booking a regular taxi at the comfort of their homes.

The launch of the aerial air taxi service took place in Karachi. The lease agreement for the DA 40 Diamond series aircraft was officially signed at the Civil Aviation office adjacent to Karachi Airport.

Sky Wings Aviation Chief Operating Officer (COO), Imran Aslam Khan, expressed his excitement about this milestone, saying that the aircraft designated for aerial tours has arrived in Pakistan, following a successful test flight. The single-engine plane has a seating capacity of four passengers.

"The primary goal of this air taxi service is to provide emergency transportation from Karachi to remote areas in rural Sindh and Balochistan through aerial tours," he said.

The German-manu-factured aircraft can fly at a speed of up to 160 kilometres per hour and has a flight range of 2,000 kilometres, making it an ideal choice for efficient air travel.

Imran said that the mobile app, set to launch soon, will enable citizens to select their desired time and destination for air travel.

Notably, the fare for this novel air taxi will be significantly lower compared to typical charter services, which start at a cost of Rs2.5 million for a trip from Karachi to various cities in Sindh and Balochistan.

"Initially, the air taxi service will commence with eight aircraft of different capacities, with plans to add more planes in the near future. Importantly, this service is not limited to political, religious, or business personalities but will be accessible to the individuals from all walks of life," the COO said.

Khan further highlighted that the journey from Karachi to Gwadar will take approximately three hours, while Nawabshah can be reached within a short timeframe of one hour and 15 minutes.

The Sky Wings has also launched an air ambulance service and one-day pilot programme, ensuring efficient and prompt services for those who need it.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 21^st, 2023.