Punjab Government Acquires Luxury Gulfstream Jet Amid Criticism
The Punjab government has apparently acquired a luxury Gulfstream jet for VIP transport. A government job advertisement seeking a G500-rated pilot confirmed what open-source flight tracking had suggested. The ad requires an Air Transport Pilot License with at least 2,000 flying hours and experience on twin-engine jets.
Observers reported that the aircraft, a 2019 Gulfstream GVII-G500, flew from Lahore to Sialkot on February 16 under the call sign “Punjab 2.” The jet, previously registered in the U.S. as N144S, is valued between $38 million and $42 million (over Rs11 billion). Aviation experts say the purchase is unusually high-end for provincial VIP transport.
Public Reaction and Controversy
Critics argue that the acquisition raises concerns over public spending. Lahore-based policy analysts note that such luxury comes at a time when the province promotes austerity. Former Punjab governor Muhammad Zubair described the aircraft as “beautiful and worth more than 1,000 crore.” He questioned if citizens could afford such spending during economic hardship.
Former finance minister Miftah Ismail also criticized the move. He linked the purchase to rising fuel prices, highlighting inequality between VIP privileges and citizens’ daily struggles. Public scrutiny increased after the pilot job advertisement indirectly confirmed the jet’s presence.
Implications for Governance
Analysts say the episode reflects a familiar pattern: expensive VIP decisions often emerge through indirect information rather than formal announcements. The pilot ad provides rare official acknowledgment of the jet’s acquisition.
Questions remain about funding, approval, and justification. Many citizens expect transparency, especially during economic challenges. The acquisition has fueled debate on priorities, accountability, and governance in Punjab.
