By Muhammad Shafique Raja
ISLAMABAD, Mar 05 (APP):In a major development for tourism and rescue operations in Pakistan’s remote mountainous regions, private helicopter services are expected to become operational for the first time in the country’s history by April–May this year, President of the Alpine Club of Pakistan Major General (Retd) Irfan Arshad said on Thursday.
In an exclusive interview with APP, Irfan said the initiative would help improve access to Pakistan’s high-altitude areas while strengthening rescue capabilities for climbers and trekkers.
“It is extremely necessary. So far, only military aviation has been looking after helicopter operations, and they mainly provide services for rescue missions,” he said.
He noted that the absence of private helicopter services had long limited opportunities for tourism safaris, transportation and logistical support for mountaineers and expedition teams heading to Pakistan’s northern peaks.
Highlighting regional comparisons, Arshad said countries like Nepal had already developed a strong private helicopter sector.
“In Nepal, there are around 13 helicopter aviation companies. Few operate two helicopters, few three, and few even up to ten,” he said.
Expressing optimism about Pakistan’s progress, he said both the government and the armed forces were supportive of the initiative.
“We have made considerable progress. The government is serious about this initiative, and the army is also supporting the process,” he added.
He said efforts were underway through the Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Defence to facilitate private companies entering the helicopter services market.
According to Irfan, private operators would be allowed to conduct both rescue missions and tourism-related activities.
“They will have permission for rescue operations as well as tourism safaris and other specialised programmes, including support for certain agencies,” he said.
He expressed hope that by April–May this year, around five to six helicopters from the private sector would begin operations.
“The initiative includes helicopters from different institutions. Few government entities will also provide services on a commercial basis along with private companies,” he explained.
He further said that few foreign companies had also shown interest in the initiative. “There are different institutions, including government ones, that will provide services, and some direct private companies are also coming. One Italian company and one Nepali company are expected to join,” he added.
He said the services would not only improve rescue capabilities but also open new opportunities for mountain tourism in Pakistan.
“They will carry out rescue operations and develop various tourism programmes. Safaris to iconic peaks such as K2, Broad Peak and Nanga Parbat will also be introduced,” he said.
Irfan added that the launch of private helicopter services would help make Pakistan’s world-renowned mountains more accessible to international tourists and mountaineers.