If you think of Karachi as just another busy city, think again. This place has history, culture, and an airport that has seen more than its fair share of legendary flights. And today, I’m adding my own little chapter to that story with a flight on Air Blue—a relatively small airline operating from Pakistan’s largest city to the ever-iconic Dubai. So, how does Air Blue measure up? And what makes Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport a hidden gem in aviation history? Let’s dive in.
A City That Once Ruled the Skies
Karachi isn’t just Pakistan’s financial hub—it was once a major crossroads for international air travel. Back in the 1930s to the 1950s, this city was a key stop on multiple legendary routes, including:
- The Kangaroo Route (connecting Australia to the UK)
- The Double Sunrise Route (WWII flights between Australia and Sri Lanka)
- The Horseshoe Route (a crucial wartime air corridor)
In 1925, Karachi was officially put on the map as a major aviation hub when it became the entry point into British India. By 1929, it was home to South Asia’s first commercial airport, welcoming flights from the UK’s Imperial Airways. Fast forward to today, and while Karachi’s prominence has faded, the echoes of its golden era still linger in the walls of Jinnah International Airport.
Jinnah International: A Stunning First Impression
Before even checking in, I was already impressed. The airport’s massive chandeliers, Mughal-inspired architecture, and classic departure boards give it an air of elegance that’s honestly missing from many modern airports.
If you’re flying Air Blue, be prepared for an extra step—before heading inside, you might need to verify your credit card or, in my case, get a printout of your e-ticket. It’s a bit of an old-school process, but nothing too complicated. The check-in process itself was smooth, with friendly and efficient staff.
Air Blue: More Than Just Another Budget Airline
Air Blue is Pakistan’s second-largest airline, but it’s not exactly what you’d call a typical budget carrier. They launched in 2004 with domestic flights before expanding internationally in 2005, starting with a route to Dubai.
They even flirted with long-haul flights at one point, operating A340s to Manchester and Birmingham. But today, they’re back to a more regional focus, with flights across Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
What’s interesting about Air Blue is that they blur the line between low-cost and full-service. You get budget-friendly fares, but also complimentary meals, extra legroom options, and a more comfortable cabin than your typical low-cost airline.
The Lounge Surprise
Karachi’s airport has two lounges, and while the first one is packed, the second one is a hidden gem. Located in the center of the terminal’s satellite section, it’s quiet, spacious, and honestly felt more like a cruise ship lounge than an airport one. No windows, but table service, friendly staff, and a relaxed atmosphere made it a great place to unwind before boarding.
Onboard Experience: A Comfortable Ride to Dubai
As soon as I stepped onto the plane, I was guided to my seat by the crew—a small touch, but one I haven’t experienced on an all-economy flight in a long time. My exit row seat was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of padding, under-seat power outlets, and personal air vents—all small details that make a big difference. Takeoff from Karachi was smooth, and as we climbed over the city, I took a moment to reflect on something I’d noticed before my flight.
Inflight Dining: A Proper Meal at 35,000 Feet
One thing that really sets Air Blue apart is their complimentary meals.
For this flight, the meal included:
- Chicken methi with brown rice
- Cucumber salad & raita
- Caramel crunch cake
For a flight that’s only supposed to be two hours, this was impressive—especially considering how many airlines are cutting back on food service.
A Minor Hiccup: Holding Over Dubai
As we approached Dubai, we were placed in a holding pattern for nearly an hour. Not ideal, but what surprised me was the complete silence from the flight deck. No announcements, no updates—just…waiting. Eventually, we broke out of the hold and descended into Dubai, approaching from the northwest. Despite the delay, we still arrived in one piece, and my quick trip to Karachi had come to an end.
Karachi, Air Blue & The Unexpected
Is Pakistan a typical vacation spot? No. Would I visit again? Absolutely. This was one of those trips that completely defied my expectations. Karachi’s airport was stunning, Air Blue was better than expected, and the history behind this city made it even more special. I’ll be back—hopefully for a longer stay next time.