The Balochistan business community is weighing the possibility of launching a private airline as soaring airfares and limited connectivity continue to strain passengers and traders across the province.
The idea was discussed during a meeting between aviation expert Mohsin Jamil and office-bearers of the Quetta Balochistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QBCCI), where participants examined the feasibility and framework of a potential airline originating from Balochistan.
Mohsin Jamil termed the proposal an urgent need of the time, urging the province’s business leaders to consider a model similar to the Sialkot business community, which launched its own private airline to improve trade and travel connectivity.
“If the Balochistan business community succeeds in launching a private airline, it would be a major milestone for the province and a significant relief for both the public and the business sector,” he said.
High airfares driving the debate
Discussions around a private airline have intensified amid persistent complaints over exorbitant ticket prices from Quetta. Last year in November, opposition MPA Shahida Rauf tabled a resolution in the Balochistan Assembly highlighting the issue.
According to the resolution:
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One-way fares from Quetta to Karachi rose to Rs43,000–45,000, occasionally reaching Rs60,000
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Tickets from Quetta to Islamabad exceeded Rs70,000
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In contrast, fares between Karachi and Lahore or Islamabad remained between Rs15,000–20,000
The disparity, lawmakers noted, has placed an unfair financial burden on residents of Balochistan.
Chamber’s stance
QBCCI Patron-in-Chief Haji Ghulam Farooq Khilji, President Haji Muhammad Ayub Mariani, Vice President Engineer Mir Wais Khan Kakar, and other representatives said the Balochistan High Court has also issued directives to the chamber regarding efforts for launching a private airline from the province.
They acknowledged that unreliable schedules and high fares were hurting economic activity and public mobility, and expressed willingness to continue consultations on the initiative.
The chamber leadership stressed that while no final decision has been taken, deliberations would continue to assess regulatory, financial, and operational requirements.
For now, the proposal reflects growing pressure on the business community to find market-driven solutions to Balochistan’s long-standing air travel challenges.
