EAST Lancashire's first airline has had to delay its inaugural flight because it is still waiting for a licence.

Global Spirit Airlines, which has its head office on Capricorn Business Park, Blakewater Road, Blackburn, was due to make its first flight from Manchester to the Pakistani capital Islamabad in September.

But before its two Boeing 747 jets can carry their first passengers the company needs to be granted the Air Travel Organisers Licence (ATOL).

The ATOL will allow Global Spirit Airlines to act as a tour operator, buying seats on existing flights for its own customers. It does not allow the company to fly its own jets, as that requires an Air Operators Licence.

However, Tasejad Jeffrey, the Blackburn-born businessman behind the multi-million pound venture, said his company did not require that licence because an airline in Bournemouth was operating the jets on its behalf.

A spokesman for the Civil Aviation Authority -- the UK body that regulates air travel -- said the company's application, made six months ago, was still being considered.

Mr Jeffrey said: "We understand it can be quite time consuming.

"We are hoping the licence will be granted before the end of the year so we can commence operating."

Meanwhile, Global Sprit Airlines intends to lease a DC10 plane to commence its freight operations, which do not require the ATOL, to ensure the company has some revenue.

Mr Jeffrey said he hoped freight operations would commence this month.

Global Spirit Airlines was incorporated in December 2003 and is targeted at British families with relatives in Pakistan.