The Punjab government has added a Gulfstream G500 to its aviation assets as part of a plan to build an official “Air Punjab” fleet. The aircraft, valued at around Rs 10 billion, is registered in the United States as N144S and is approximately seven years old.
The jet arrived in Lahore on December 28 after flying from North America with a stop in Hurghada, Egypt. Following its arrival, it underwent about 40 days of interior refurbishment before being cleared for operational use. Its first domestic flight was recorded on February 6, operating from Lahore to Multan.
Since then, the aircraft has completed several routes under the call sign “PUNJAB2,” including flights to Quetta, Mianwali, Sialkot, and Rawalpindi. The G500 is known globally as a long range business jet, capable of flying over 5,000 nautical miles without refueling and carrying up to 19 passengers, depending on cabin configuration. It is commonly used by governments, corporate executives, and private operators for official travel.
Officials say the acquisition is part of a broader plan to formalize and expand provincial air travel operations through a structured fleet. The proposed “Air Punjab” initiative may include additional aircraft purchases as well as leasing arrangements in the future.
While the government maintains that the jet will support official travel and administrative efficiency, the purchase has also drawn public attention due to its cost and timing amid ongoing economic pressures in the country.
