Private Helicopter Services for Northern Areas Expected by May

Private helicopter services for tourism and rescue operations in Pakistan’s mountainous regions may begin by April or May this year, President of the Alpine Club of Pakistan Major General (Retd) Irfan Arshad said.

Speaking in an interview, Arshad said the initiative would improve access to high-altitude areas and strengthen rescue capabilities for climbers and trekkers. He said helicopter operations in Pakistan’s northern mountains have largely been handled by military aviation, which mainly provides rescue support.

The limited availability of helicopters has also affected tourism safaris, transport facilities, and logistical support for mountaineering expeditions heading to northern peaks. Arshad said efforts were underway with the Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Defence to facilitate private companies entering the helicopter services sector.

Private operators will be allowed to conduct rescue missions as well as tourism-related activities. He said around five to six helicopters from the private sector are expected to begin operations by April or May.

Arshad added that some government institutions may also provide services on a commercial basis alongside private operators. He said a few foreign companies have also shown interest in the initiative, including firms from Italy and Nepal.

The services are expected to support rescue operations and tourism programs, including helicopter safaris to major peaks such as K2, Broad Peak and Nanga Parbat. Arshad said the initiative could help make Pakistan’s high-altitude regions more accessible for international tourists and mountaineers.