Business Flight Operations in Pakistan

Pakistan is a large and diverse country with a growing demand for air travel. Business aviation is a vital part of the aviation sector, providing flexible and efficient transportation for corporate executives, government officials, and high-net-worth individuals. Pakistan has a number of airports and airfields that can accommodate business jets and helicopters, as well as a range of services and facilities for business aviation operators and passengers. Pakistan also offers attractive opportunities for investment and development in the business aviation industry, as well as a favorable regulatory environment and tax incentives. The top 5 Pakistan International Airports with IATA and ICAO codes are:

• Jinnah International Airport (IATA: KHI, ICAO: OPKC)
• Islamabad International Airport (IATA: ISB, ICAO: OPIS)
• Allama Iqbal International Airport (IATA: LHE, ICAO: OPLA)
• Bacha Khan International Airport (IATA: PEW, ICAO: OPPS)
• Quaid-e-Azam International Airport (IATA: UET, ICAO: OPQT)

Islamabad International Airport (IATA: ISB, ICAO: OPIS)

ISB has a single terminal with 15 gates, 10 of which are remote. The terminal has a capacity of 9 million passengers per year and can handle up to 15 flights per hour. The airport also has a dedicated Hajj terminal and a cargo terminal. The airport offers a variety of facilities and services for passengers, including duty-free shops, a food court, 42 immigration counters, a business lounge, a CIP lounge, a prayer area, a smoking room, a medical center, and a metrobus service.

Allama Iqbal International Airport (IATA: LHE, ICAO: OPLA)

LHE has two terminals, one for international flights and one for domestic flights. The international terminal has 11 gates, while the domestic terminal has 5 gates. The airport can handle up to 6 million passengers per year and up to 12 flights per hour. The airport provides various amenities and features for travelers, such as duty-free shops, a food court, 24 immigration counters, a business lounge, a CIP lounge, a prayer area, a smoking room, a medical center, and a taxi service.

Jinnah International Airport (IATA: KHI, ICAO: OPKC)

KHI has two terminals, one for international flights and one for domestic flights. The international terminal has 12 gates, while the domestic terminal has 6 gates. The airport can accommodate up to 12 million passengers per year and up to 18 flights per hour. The airport offers a range of facilities and services for passengers, such as duty-free shops, a food court, 32 immigration counters, a business lounge, a CIP lounge, a prayer area, a smoking room, a medical center, and a bus service.

Extended Slot Permissions for Non-Scheduled Flights

Permission for non-scheduled flights necessitating an extended slot in Pakistan is primarily limited to Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad Airports, allowing parking for up to 10 days initially, extendable to 30 days. However, at other airports, such permissions are contingent upon parking space/slot availability, and the duration of the aircraft’s slot is subject to the specifications set by the respective Airport Manager.

The approval process for such operations is conducted on a case-by-case basis. The application for permission must include certified true copies of crucial documents, namely the Air Operator Certificate (AOC), Certificate of Airworthiness, and Third Party Insurance Policy.

Given that the clearance is valid for 30 days, authorized agents are responsible for ensuring that all operating crew possess valid travel documents, providing copies as needed. Clearances are issued on a first-come, first-serve basis once all required documents are completed and accepted.

In situations where necessary, the Director Airworthiness or Director Flight Standard may temporarily suspend aircraft operations through the Directorate of Air Transport and Economic Regulation (DAT&ER) after a thorough inspection of the aircraft and its applicable documents. This ensures a comprehensive approach to the oversight of non-scheduled flights with prolonged slots in Pakistan.

Overflight Permissions for International Operations in Pakistan

When transiting through Pakistan’s airspace, both private non-revenue and charter operations require overflight permits, meticulously processed by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). To facilitate swift approval, essential flight details such as the operator’s name, itinerary, flight purpose, route, expected flight level, crew/passenger details, and flight classification must be provided. Unlike landing permits, overflight permits do not necessitate aircraft documents, with the exception of Indian-registered aircraft. Notably, Indian-registered flights must furnish additional operator details. To ensure thorough evaluation by the CAA, a 96-hour lead time is crucial for secure screening of each request.

Landing Permissions for International Operations in Pakistan

When planning to land in Pakistan, both private non-revenue and charter flights require permits, subject to a meticulous six-day processing period by the CAA. Private operators are required to submit airworthiness certificates, registration documents, and global insurance policies, while charter operators must provide Air Operator Certificates. The CAA strictly prohibits flights to/from Israel and conducts advanced security screenings for all permit requests. While short-notice permits may be available, it is advisable to plan well in advance. Landing permits must be revised for any changes in the operational date, ensuring compliance with Pakistan’s regulatory procedures. Technical stops are permitted for up to 24 hours, adhering to designated routes and stringent security protocols. Passenger pickups come with additional requirements and coordination fees.

Navigating Aviation Regulations in Pakistan

To obtain overflight permits in Pakistan, operators are required to submit essential flight details, encompassing the operator’s name, itinerary, purpose of the flight, route, expected flight level, number of crew/passengers, and flight classification. While aircraft information is a prerequisite, specific documents are not mandated, except for Indian-registered aircraft, which may need to provide additional details. As for short-notice overflight permits in Pakistan, the possibility of obtaining them depends on the Civil Aviation Authority’s (CAA) willingness to consider such requests. Operators are strongly advised to refrain from seeking short-notice permits whenever possible, as their approval is contingent upon the CAA’s discretion.

For landing permits in Pakistan, both private non-revenue and charter flights necessitate these permissions. The required information includes copies of airworthiness and registration certificates, a worldwide insurance policy, and additional details for charter flights, such as the Air Operator Certificate. Moreover, the purpose of the flight, business contact information, and passenger details are deemed essential for the successful processing of landing permits in Pakistan.

Special Requirements and Notifications for Flight Operations in Pakistan

In Pakistan, certain routes, specifically the “PURPA route” in northeastern Pakistan, may necessitate additional advance notification for permits. Acquiring permission for this route can pose challenges, and operators intending to use it should plan accordingly. It is advisable to provide ample advance notice in permit requests to enhance the likelihood of obtaining the required permissions.

Regarding the pickup of passengers who did not arrive with the aircraft in Pakistan, operators must adhere to special requirements. Detailed information about passengers, including their name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and expiration date, is essential. Additionally, a coordination fee of approximately $100 per passenger is required. This fee should be collected by the ground handler and subsequently paid to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to ensure compliance with the necessary procedures for passenger pickups in Pakistan.

Pakistan Ground Handling Services for International Business Operations

Pakistan’s international airports boast a range of ground handling services provided by Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs), encompassing line maintenance, engineering support, fueling, Ground Power Unit (GPU), Air Start Unit (ASU), Air Conditioning Unit (ACU), and tow tractor services. Additionally, there are multiple fuel providers offering Jet A, Jet A-1, and Avgas aviation fuels tailored for diverse aircraft engines. Jet A and Jet A-1, both kerosene-based fuels, are specifically utilized for turbojet and turboprop engines. In contrast, Avgas, a gasoline-based fuel, is designed for piston engines, providing a comprehensive selection of options to cater to the varying needs of different aircraft types.

Just Aviation opens doors to success in business flight operations in Pakistan. With our proven track record and in-depth understanding of the local aviation landscape, we ensure secure and efficient operations. Partner with us for a seamless experience, from flight planning to ground services. Your success is our commitment, as we navigate and facilitate your business flight operations in Pakistan.