Punjab hands over Maryam Nawaz’s Gulfstream G-500 jet to PAF
The decision was taken because the provincial government’s VIP Flight Wing reportedly lacked the technical resources and trained staff needed to operate and maintain the sophisticated aircraft.
According to official documents, the provincial cabinet has approved a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Punjab government and the Pakistan Air Force.
The agreement will explain how the aircraft will be managed, maintained and operated, including financial arrangements.
The Maryam Nawaz Gulfstream G-500 jet is equipped with advanced technology and complex systems that require specialised knowledge.
Its maintenance also needs professionally trained engineers, technical staff and modern facilities.
The Punjab government reportedly found it difficult to manage these requirements through its existing arrangements.
As a result, the authorities decided to assign technical management and maintenance responsibilities to the Pakistan Air Force.
The move is aimed at ensuring the aircraft remains safe, operational and available whenever required. The PAF will also be responsible for maintaining its operational readiness.
Three PAF Pilots Assigned to Punjab Government
The official documents also reveal that three serving Pakistan Air Force pilots have been deputed to the Punjab government.
These pilots are already performing flight duties in coordination with the provincial government's existing pilots.
The development is another major change in the management of the Punjab government aircraft.
Instead of handling all flight operations independently, the provincial government will now rely on the Pakistan Air Force's technical expertise and aviation facilities.
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The aircraft has also been deregistered with the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). The Pakistan Air Force has assigned a separate tail number to the jet as part of the new operational arrangements.
The provincial cabinet has formally approved the deregistration process, allocation of the new PAF tail number and transfer of operational control.
MoU Covers Maintenance and Financial Matters
The proposed agreement between the Punjab government and the Pakistan Air Force will provide a formal framework for managing the aircraft.
It will cover technical responsibilities, maintenance arrangements and financial matters connected with its operation.
The provincial government has authorised the Additional Secretary Welfare, Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD), to sign the agreement on its behalf.
Under the new arrangement, the Pakistan Air Force PAF will use its technical capabilities and trained personnel to manage the aircraft.
The Gulfstream G-500 maintenance responsibilities will also fall under the agreed arrangements.
The development means that the Maryam Nawaz Gulfstream G-500 jet will now operate under a different management structure, with the PAF handling its technical requirements.
