Private airlines in Pakistan are taking advantage of the ongoing crisis faced by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and have significantly raised the prices of domestic flights. Reports in local media indicate that ticket prices for domestic routes have surged, with fares ranging from Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 70,000. Flights from Karachi to Lahore have seen prices increase up to Rs. 50,000, and passengers flying from Karachi to Islamabad are being charged between Rs. 55,000 and Rs. 61,000 for one-way tickets.
This surge in private airline ticket prices has come in the wake of PIA’s struggle to resolve a fuel shortage issue, resulting in the cancellation of nearly 50 flights. However, a PIA spokesperson remains optimistic, stating that they have secured funds for fuel through their own resources, aiming to restore the flight schedule to normalcy.
Despite their efforts to rectify the situation, PIA has extended apologies to passengers who have been inconvenienced by delayed and canceled flights. The airline industry in Pakistan is experiencing turbulence due to these circumstances, leaving travelers with limited options and significantly higher costs. As PIA works to stabilize its operations, travelers will need to monitor the situation and consider alternative travel arrangements during this challenging period.