Punjab Government Denies Reports Air Punjab Project Has Been Scrapped

The Punjab government has rejected reports that its planned state-owned airline, Air Punjab, has been abandoned, stating that the project remains active and is moving forward despite delays. Punjab Transport Secretary Imran Sikandar Baloch said the initiative has not been cancelled and that officials are continuing preparations to make the carrier operational.

According to Baloch, progress has been slowed by international conditions, including the Iran-US conflict and the resulting pressures on global oil markets. He said these factors have affected timelines but have not changed the government's commitment to launching the airline.

The transport secretary confirmed that Air Punjab has already secured a licence from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), clearing a key regulatory hurdle. He added that the process of leasing aircraft is currently under way, with the provincial government planning to lease six aircraft during the initial phase.

The project was approved by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif as part of efforts to improve air connectivity within the province and offer more affordable travel options for passengers. A review meeting chaired by the chief minister previously identified the Lahore-Islamabad route as the airline's first operational corridor.

Preparations have also extended to staffing, with the government earlier beginning recruitment for senior management roles, including chief executive officer, chief operating officer and chief financial officer. These appointments are intended to support the airline's launch and day-to-day operations.

The clarification comes amid speculation about the future of the project after repeated delays. For now, the provincial government maintains that Air Punjab remains on track, with licensing complete and fleet arrangements in progress, though no firm launch date has been announced.