Senate body for flight operations on remote, underserved routes
ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Defence on Tuesday directed the government to make flight operations on remote and underserved routes, including Quetta, Gilgit and Chitral, a mandatory condition for granting airline licences, amid growing concerns over soaring airfares and frequent flight cancellations.
The committee, which met under the chairmanship of Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood, asked the Ministry of Defence to submit details of airlines penalised for failing to fulfil mandatory obligations of operating flights to socio-economic routes. It also called for an investigation into repeated cancellations of flights to northern and remote destinations on the pretext of adverse weather.
Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif informed the committee that airfares are market-driven and that the Ministry of Defence is not the regulatory authority responsible for fixing or capping ticket prices. However, he assured the committee of full cooperation in improving air connectivity to underserved regions.
Representatives of airlines briefed the committee on the commercial and operational challenges of operating flights to these destinations. The committee appreciated Air Sial’s services and encouraged airlines to induct ATR aircraft to improve connectivity to remote areas.
The committee also reviewed the pilots’ licensing issue and was informed that the matter had largely been resolved, while the remaining licences were undergoing strict scrutiny. Members condemned the controversial statements made by the former aviation minister, saying they had severely damaged Pakistan’s international aviation reputation and caused substantial financial losses. The committee also sought a comprehensive report on the issue.
Discussing operations at Gwadar International Airport, officials said efforts were underway to increase air traffic and improve the airport’s commercial viability. They noted that the reopening of Iranian airspace following the de-escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran could improve regional air traffic patterns and create opportunities for greater utilisation of Gwadar Airport. The committee directed authorities to accelerate measures to attract more flights.
The committee expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport and the lack of basic passenger facilities. Officials informed members that an upgradation plan was under consideration and that airport privatisation was being explored to attract investment and improve service standards. The committee sought a detailed report on existing deficiencies and proposed development timelines.
The committee was also briefed by the Director General of the Pakistan Meteorological Department on Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) risks, the upcoming monsoon season, flood preparedness, and early warning systems. Stressing the increasing threats posed by climate change, the chairman directed all relevant authorities to remain vigilant and ensure timely preventive measures to protect lives and property.
On the reported Rs 20 billion E-Gate Project, the Defence minister clarified that no contract had been awarded and assured the committee that any procurement would be carried out transparently and in accordance with the law under parliamentary oversight.
The committee further discussed allegations of commercial activities in residential areas of Rawalpindi Cantonment in violation of court directives. The Defence Minister assured members that the matter would be reviewed by the cantonment authorities and appropriate legal action would be taken where necessary.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026