20000404

Aero Asia

plans to

expand

operations

ISLAMABAD: Aero Asia, the first private airline to launch operations in Pakistan in May 1993, is currently negotiating with authorities in Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, Kuwait and Iran to operate flights to these countries.

The airline, is also considering routes in the CIS, besides Bangladesh, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines and Hong Kong.

The Executive Director of the airline Adnan Talani said that we enjoy well-deserved reputation of a well-equipped and smoothly operated airlines which is second to none in comfort, convenience and safety.

He said the airline had carried over seven million passengers in the past seven years. It flies to Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Multan and Peshawar. The International operations are from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and Peshawar to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al ain, Doha and Muscat.

The fleet of the carrier includes BAC 1-11 and YAK-42D type aircraft: In view of present needs the airline is also working on a programme to replace its smaller aircraft with bigger planes and is studying various versions of the Boeing-737 and Airbus for fleet upgradation, Adnan said.

He said despite tough competition, Aero Asia had succeeded in maintaining its share in a price-conscious market. This has come about through a commitment to reliable service, realistic fares, convenient time schedules and other value-added services by virtue of its IATA approved status.

He said the airline also maintains a well-equipped ground handling set up at various airports in the country, which caters to all types of planes.ÑPPI