Kashmirwala Group
Pioneering Pakistan's travel trade since independence
In the early years following the independence of Pakistan in 1947, one determined young man would shape the nation's travel and aviation landscape for generations to come.
Haji Fazal Ahmed Kashmirwala had been deeply involved in the promotion of the travel trade in the sub-continent from its grassroots days, and was fascinated by the newly emerging aviation sector. He was the pioneer of tourism in Pakistan and the Founder of the Kashmirwala Group of Companies.
He belonged to a respectable business family whose forefathers once lived in Srinagar, tending to their large land holdings and industries. Later he moved to Delhi where he became the founder, printer, publisher and editor of the prestigious "Pakistan" magazine, published from 1941 to 1947. He also owned and managed a transport company, a tramway company, hotels and an enamel industry.
The travel trade always remained his first love, and it was this industry on which he focused his attention immediately after the creation of the new country. In 1947 he laid the foundation of the Kashmirwala Group — by the end of the fifties, the Group's travel agency offices were already established throughout the country.
He was deeply committed to the promotion of domestic and international tourism in Pakistan, organizing exclusive "Excursion Trains" with the help of Railways authorities. He also played a significant role in the formation of the All Pakistan Travel Agents Association in 1959.
After an eventful and accomplished life, Haji Fazal Ahmed Kashmirwala died in 1976 at the age of 71. Today, the name "Kashmirwala" is synonymous with the Air Travel trade in Pakistan.
While all the other sons of Late Fazal Ahmed chose to exclusively focus on Travel Agency business, Mr. Aftab Kashmirwala ventured into other disciplines of Commercial aviation.
When Kashmir Corporation was appointed as the first GSA and Ground Handling Agent for the National Airlines (PIA) at three domestic online stations — Hyderabad, Sukkur and Nawab Shah — Mr. Aftab was the Chief Operating Officer of this new venture. Extensively trained by his father in the multiple operational, marketing and servicing disciplines of Airlines and equipped with years of experience as GSA/GHIA of PIA, he decided to offer his expertise to foreign airlines.
Qantas Airways (QF), Turkish Airlines (TK), Air Mauritius (MK), South African Airlines (SA), Asiana Airlines (OZ), China Airlines (CI), Royal Brunei Airlines (BI), Air Portugal (TP), Ukraine Int'l Airlines (PS), Aerosvit Airlines, Azerbaijan Airlines (J2)
Mr. Aftab Kashmirwala also went into partnership with Mio Ogden Aviation Services, the reputed international airlines Ground handling Company of USA, for providing ground handling services to International airlines at Karachi Airport. In order to promote such a large number of reputable international Airlines in Pakistan, Mr. Aftab not only developed a vast state of the art infrastructure spanning the entire country, but also hired and trained a highly professional workforce to ensure the highest quality of services.
Mr. Aftab Kashmirwala did his father and his country proud by his immense contribution to the promotion of Air Travel Trade in Pakistan. He ensured that his father's legacy endures.
To Our Late Founder, Haji Fazal Ahmed Kashmirwala
A historic correspondence from Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah acknowledging Mr. Kashmirwala's valuable contribution at the All India Muslim League session held in 1942.
This letter reflects a moment of deep respect and recognition during a defining period of the independence movement. It highlights not only the significance of the contribution made by Mr. Kashmirwala, but also the trust and appreciation expressed by the leadership of the Muslim League at that time.
This rare document offers a glimpse into the close association between prominent individuals and the leadership during a crucial phase of history. It also underscores the active involvement and influence of the Kashmirwala family in key national events. Furthermore, it serves as a testament to their commitment, integrity, and lasting impact during the struggle for independence.
Preserved as part of the family's legacy, this document stands as a symbol of honor, heritage, and the enduring role of the Kashmirwala family in the pre-independence history of the subcontinent.
The Kashmirwala group was founded by Haji Fazal Ahmed Kashmirwala in 1947. Today it is run by the third and fourth generation, maintaining its coveted position as one of the leaders in the field of air transportation of passengers and cargo. The group is now owned and managed by his grandson Shakil Aftab Kashmirwala (Chairman) and Omer Shakil Kashmirwala his great grandson, and it exclusively deals with the GSA business for various international airlines in Pakistan.
© Copyright Kashmirwala Group 2026. All rights reserved.
Website Designed by KashmirwalaGroup