Until now, helicopter operations have been handled solely by military aviation, primarily for rescue missions," he said. He observed that the absence of private helicopter services had long constrained tourism safaris, transportation and logistical support for mountaineering expeditions to Pakistan's northern peaks. Efforts are under way in coordination with the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Defence to facilitate private companies entering the helicopter services market. According to Irfan Arshad, private operators will be authorised to conduct both rescue missions and tourism-related activities. "They will have permission for rescue operations as well as tourism safaris and specialised programmes, including support for certain agencies," he said.

Source: The Express Tribune March 15, 2026 13:24 UTC