Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani addressed guests in Multan on 24 November as the special guest at the announcement of a new private airline, underlining that Pakistan’s true foundation lies in its smaller cities and neglected regions. He pledged to continue working for the development of southern Punjab and other underserved areas and welcomed the airline’s role in improving regional access and economic inclusion.
Gilani described the launch as more than a commercial milestone, calling it an important step toward strengthened regional connectivity, better travel facilities and wider participation in the national economy. He said South Air’s establishment demonstrates that farsighted leadership opens pathways for progress and will help close long-standing gaps in links to distant towns.
Speaking about the project’s local significance, Gilani said that Multan has always been close to his heart and that starting operations from the city reflects confidence in southern Punjab’s potential. He said improved air links will benefit commerce, education, health services and social cohesion by bringing previously isolated communities into the mainstream.
Gilani praised the leadership behind the airline, commending Executive Director Kunwar Tariq for bringing a challenging plan to life and celebrating CEO Nashat Fatima’s appointment as a landmark moment for women in the aviation sector. He also paid tribute to Chief Operating Officer (retd) Air Vice Marshal Ijaz Mahmood Malik for lending his experience to the venture and acknowledged the contributions of SOS Group staff who supported the project.
The chairman said the first South Air flight will soon operate from Karachi to Multan and that services will gradually extend to other parts of the country, strengthening internal links and economic activity. He assured people of southern Punjab of his continued efforts for their prosperity and prayed for the airline’s safe and successful operations.
Political, business and social figures joined the announcement, including Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs Rana Qasim Noon, former Senator Sana Jamali, former provincial assembly member Syed Ahmad Mujtaba Gilani, MNA Amir Dogar, actress Faryal Gohar, Kunwar Shahid, SOS Group executive Kunwar Tariq, CEO Nashat Fatima, COO (retd) Air Vice Marshal Ijaz Mahmood Malik and Baktawar Tanvir Sheikh among others who attended in significant numbers.
