In a recent development, the Punjab government's acquisition of a luxury Gulfstream GVII-G500 jet has become a focal point of scrutiny and criticism. Reports indicate that the aircraft, valued between $38 million and $42 million, has been operational for VIP flights since February 12, 2026, with its registration number previously listed as N144S in the U.S. FAA registry. The Stratcom Bureau, which tracks defense and security news, confirmed the acquisition, stating, "The government of Punjab, Pakistan has acquired a new, 2019-manufactured Gulfstream GVII-G500 aircraft for their VIP transport role." Despite the evident operational use of the aircraft, Punjab officials have remained largely silent, with attempts by media outlets like Dawn to obtain confirmation yielding no responses from key officials, including Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman and Information Minister Azma Bokhari. The only official comment came from Additional Secretary Waseem Hamid, who denied the claims but abruptly ended the call, further fueling speculation and criticism.