Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif orders timely completion of both airport expansion projects, improved passenger facilities and international-standard services as Pakistan advances wider aviation upgrades.
WEB DESK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the expansion of Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport and Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport under their respective master plans, directing authorities to complete the projects within the prescribed timelines and meet international standards.
PM prioritises passenger convenience and construction quality
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Shehbaz directed authorities to ensure that construction quality was not compromised and that third-party assessments were conducted to validate reforms aimed at improving airport infrastructure and passenger facilities.
He also called for internationally recognised organisations to be engaged to improve service standards. Airport employees responsible for assisting travellers are to receive regular training, while coordination among the different agencies operating at airports should be strengthened.
The prime minister further directed authorities to engage reputable catering companies and maintain standards for food and beverages served to passengers.
Karachi runway expansion completed
Officials informed the meeting that runway expansion work at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport had been completed.
The meeting also reviewed development and modernisation projects being carried out by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) at airports across the country.
According to the official briefing, the CAA had made 14 airports operational over the preceding year to facilitate the resumption of domestic flight operations.
Karachi planned as an air cargo hub
The government is also pursuing an Air Cargo Village project intended to strengthen Karachi’s position as an air cargo hub.
The project forms part of broader efforts to improve aviation logistics and cargo-handling infrastructure. However, the latest announcement did not specify a completion date or provide a detailed breakdown of the project’s cost and planned capacity.
E-gates and passenger services under development
The meeting was informed that automated border management systems, commonly known as e-gates, were being installed at major airports.
Other measures include a Meet and Greet service introduced at Islamabad International Airport and pre-departure guidance desks established by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) at major airports.
Officials also reported an increase in FIA staffing and passenger-service counters to improve assistance for travellers.
Aviation university planned in Hyderabad
The government is also upgrading an existing aviation institution in Hyderabad into an aviation university intended to meet international standards.
According to the official briefing, work on the project is expected to begin by February 2028. The initiative is intended to strengthen aviation education and professional training in Pakistan.
