Pakistan’s aviation sector is set to welcome a new private airline as the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to South Air, paving the way for the carrier to begin commercial operations.
The certificate was issued under the signature of CAA Director General Nadir Shafi Dar, with the airline expected to commence flight operations within the next few days, ARY News reported.
According to aviation officials, the Ministry of Defence and the Civil Aviation Authority extended full support throughout the certification process to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.CAA Director General Nadir Shafi Dar reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to promoting the growth of Pakistan’s aviation industry by facilitating the entry of new operators while maintaining safety and operational standards.
South Air plans to operate flights to airports across Pakistan. As part of the certification process, the airline successfully conducted test flights to New Gwadar International Airport and Sukkur Airport, which were monitored and evaluated by CAA inspectors.
The launch of South Air comes as Pakistan’s aviation sector continues to expand with the entry of new carriers.
Last year, Saudi Arabia’s low-cost airline Flyadeal also launched operations to Pakistan after receiving approval from the Civil Aviation Authority to provide air services in the country.
Flyadeal’s inaugural flight, F3 166, arrived at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi from Saudi Arabia, where it was welcomed with a traditional water salute.
The airline currently operates flights between Riyadh and Karachi, with additional services connecting Karachi with Riyadh and Jeddah, offering passengers more direct travel options between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
