After PIA, govt plans to outsource Islamabad Airport with UAE, Saudi & Turkey interest
Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk: The Government of Pakistan has declared the privatization of Islamabad International Airport a top priority following the successful privatization of PIA.
During a briefing to the Senate Standing Committee on Privatization, Secretary Privatization Usman Bajwa revealed that countries including Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Turkey have shown interest in operating the airport. Instead of direct government control, an open bidding process will award airport management to the highest bidder.
Following Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore airports are also planned for outsourcing. The government aims to redeploy current staff to smaller airports, improving overall civil aviation management. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has also expressed willingness to assist in the airport outsourcing process.
The Secretary noted that past delays in PIA privatization did not involve legal or blacklist issues and confirmed compliance checks were conducted. The committee emphasized that privatization is distinct from tendering and follows globally approved procedures.
Privatization is expected to improve airport efficiency, reduce wait times, and allow the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to better manage smaller airports.
