The luxury aircraft used by the Government of Punjab has drawn attention after new details about its operating costs and pilot salaries became public. Official records show that the total spending related to the aircraft has crossed Rs11 billion since its purchase and operation.
The aircraft in question is the Gulfstream G500, a high end business jet used for official travel by senior government officials. Reports indicate that the plane is currently being operated by two foreign pilots who are receiving monthly salaries of about $32,000 and $38,000. In Pakistani currency, this amounts to more than Rs10 million each per month.
According to Azma Bokhari, the foreign pilots are working on short term contracts. Their role is not only to operate the aircraft but also to train local aviation staff during their four month assignment. The aim is to help Pakistani pilots and engineers learn how to handle and maintain the aircraft in the future.
In addition to the purchase and operational expenses, the provincial government approved a supplementary grant of around Rs861.5 million. These funds will be used for pilot and engineer training, aircraft maintenance, fuel, insurance, and other technical services required to keep the jet operational.
Government officials say the training program will help build local expertise so that the aircraft can eventually be operated fully by Pakistani aviation staff.
