Firnas Airways - UK based halal-friendly airline plans to launch in 2016

The airline's founder and CEO, British entrepreneur Kazi Shafiqur Rahman, is hoping to attract London-based Muslims with his halal services to Bangladesh, Pakistan, Iran and Saudi Arabia - with operations planned to commence next year. Rahman is pursuing a Shariah-friendly approach to funding, alcohol and food, and is confident he will gain the funding for what he describes as “an airline concept and business model that is unique in its scope and ambition.” Rahman continued: “These are routes that remain unexploited. Firnas Airways will fill the void by providing a world-class, premium service at economy prices.” The $50 million investment will support the cost of leasing three Boeing 767-300ER aircraft. The aircraft will be retrofitted with 270 seats in a staggered configuration. There will be only one class on board and features will include onboard Wi-Fi and a tablet entertainment system. The alcohol-free flights will also serve halal meat and use interest-free finance. The carrier is currently in talks with London's five major airports with a view to establishing the airline's UK hub.