Airlift was a startup in Pakistan that began as a public transit service in 2019, offering app-driven transportation in major cities such as Lahore and Karachi. Nonetheless, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the business shifted to Airlift Express, a fast delivery service for groceries and essentials that quickly became very popular.
The service quickly gained popularity due to its comfortable and affordable rides, as well as its user-friendly mobile app, which allowed passengers to book rides easily. Over time, Airlift expanded its services to include other transportation solutions, such as home delivery and logistics. Despite facing challenges, including competition and funding, Airlift’s innovative approach helped it carve out a significant niche in Pakistan’s emerging tech ecosystem.
Key Highlights of Airlift in Pakistan:
- Established: 2019
- Original Offering: Ride-sharing services for buses and vans catering to daily commuters
- Pivot to Quick Commerce: Switched to online grocery and essentials delivery in 2020
- Major Investment: Raised $85 million in Series B funding in 2021, making it Pakistan’s largest-ever startup investment
- Closure: In spite of its achievements, Airlift ceased operations in July 2022 due to difficulties in securing funding and economic challenges.
Airlift was seen as a pioneer in Pakistan’s startup ecosystem, setting a benchmark for tech-driven solutions in transportation and e-commerce
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