Bahawalpur Airport: Commercial Flights Resume After Years with New Private Airline Service
South Air launches Karachi–Bahawalpur–Islamabad route, restoring passenger flight operations and reconnecting the city to Pakistan’s domestic air network.
South Air's inaugural flight marks the return of commercial passenger services at Bahawalpur Airport.
Bahawalpur Airport resumed commercial passenger operations on Thursday as private airline South Air launched its Karachi–Bahawalpur–Islamabad service, ending a suspension of scheduled flights that lasted several years.
The new service has restored domestic air connectivity for Bahawalpur, providing residents and businesses with direct access to Karachi and Islamabad.
Airport Manager Aitzaz Ahsan said the inaugural South Air flight arrived from Karachi with four passengers. After a 30-minute stopover in Bahawalpur, the aircraft departed for Islamabad carrying 12 passengers.
Deputy Commissioner Syed Hassan Raza inaugurated the flight service and welcomed the first passengers and crew at the airport.
Officials from the district administration, members of the business community, and local residents attended the ceremony. Bahawalpur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) President Zafar Sharif, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Dr Aisha Khan, Bahawalpur Gymkhana Secretary Waheed Arshad Chaudhry, and other dignitaries greeted the passengers and crew with flower garlands.
South Air Chief Commercial Officer Siraj Anwar Qazi said the airline plans to expand its fleet by adding more aircraft to improve connectivity and provide passengers with greater travel convenience.
According to airport authorities, South Air will operate the Karachi–Bahawalpur–Islamabad route three times a week on Thursdays, Sundays, and Mondays.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) suspended flight operations from Bahawalpur Airport in 2024, citing a shortage of aircraft despite reports that the route remained commercially viable.
The suspension drew strong criticism from local residents, business leaders, and people from neighbouring districts, including Bahawalnagar, who repeatedly called for the restoration of commercial flights.
During the suspension, elected representatives and members of the business community urged the authorities to restart services, but passengers continued to rely on Multan Airport for domestic travel.
The launch of South Air’s operations is expected to improve regional connectivity, support local businesses, and make air travel more accessible for residents of Bahawalpur and surrounding areas.
