Saudi Arabia’s private low-cost airline will launch low-cost operations in Pakistan, offering flights between Karachi, Lahore, Jeddah and Riyadh. The airline, which entered the aviation industry in 2021, aims to provide economical travel options. Last year, it started trial low-cost flights for Hajj pilgrims in Pakistan. Hajj and Umrah flights from Karachi to Jeddah and Riyadh will be operated two days a week, while similar flights will operate from Lahore to the same Saudi destinations every other day. Features of airlines Budget carriers focus on affordability, offering only economy class seating and not including extra amenities. Passengers pay separately for food, baggage and preferred seating. These airlines often use short routes and cost-effective secondary airports to reduce operating costs. The airline conducted trial low-cost flights for Hajj pilgrims from Pakistan last year. It now plans to expand these services to cater to a wider audience looking for economical travel options. Local travel and tour operators in Pakistan have expressed skepticism about the success of Saudi Arabia’s low-cost airline in the region. Mohsin Malik, a travel consultant, noted, “Each new airline entering Pakistan initially offers attractive deals, but prices often adjust to local airlines as passenger demand grows.” Muhammad Amin Khan, representative of Tours and Travels Agent Association, emphasized the need for affordability for pilgrims. “Currently, no airline in Pakistan operates as a true low-cost carrier. With higher food and baggage costs, such airlines may not serve poor pilgrims efficiently. We urge the government to introduce subsidies or special tariffs for Hajj and Umrah travelers. The success of Saudi Arabia’s low-cost airline in Pakistan will depend on its ability to keep prices low, provide satisfactory service and build trust among passengers.
