Pakistan is a big country with long distances between cities, but surprisingly, most domestic air travel happens on just a few routes. According to data from the Flight Monitoring Dashboard, almost 75% of all domestic flights are on two main routes:

– Islamabad to Karachi (and back)

– Karachi to Lahore (and back)

This means that most flights are only connecting Pakistan’s three biggest cities. Even though many other cities need better air travel options, flights to those areas are still very limited.

Why Don’t More People Travel by Air in Pakistan? 

There are a few reasons why air travel in Pakistan is not as popular as it could be:

• Expensive Tickets: Plane tickets cost almost three times more than traveling by bus or train, making it too costly for many people.
• Good Road and Rail Networks: Pakistan has a strong motorway and railway system. Many people prefer to travel by bus or train because it is cheaper and easier.
• Limited Airlines: Only a few airlines operate domestic flights, which means less competition and higher prices.
• Few Airports: Many cities do not have proper airports, making it difficult for people in smaller towns to fly.

 Can Pakistan’s Aviation Industry Grow? 

Yes, there is a lot of potential for growth! If airlines offer more affordable fares and increase flight frequency to cities like Quetta, Peshawar, and Multan, domestic air travel could become a more attractive option. Additionally, improving airport facilities and enhancing connectivity to smaller cities can make flying more convenient and accessible for a larger population.

As Pakistan’s economy grows and more people need to travel quickly, there is a big opportunity to expand air travel beyond just the Islamabad-Karachi-Lahore route. Making flights more affordable and convenient can help Pakistan build a stronger domestic aviation market.