Pakistan to Upgrade Lahore and Karachi Airports

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the expansion of Lahore and Karachi airports, the state broadcaster Radio Pakistan reported.

The prime minister chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad, directing that the projects be completed within the specified timeframe without compromising on quality and in line with international standards.

He emphasized that passenger convenience at Pakistani airports must be a top priority, and third-party validation should be ensured for expansion projects and reforms aimed at enhancing travel facilities.

The prime minister also directed that officers and staff providing services to passengers at airports receive regular training, and coordination among various agencies present at airports should be improved.

He instructed that top-tier caterers be hired for passengers at airports, with no compromise on the quality of food and beverages.

The meeting was briefed on a recent survey conducted by an international firm to assess travel service standards at major airports, as well as the expansion projects for Karachi and Lahore airports.

The Civil Aviation Authority is carrying out ongoing development and upgradation work at various airports across the country, including the completion of runway expansion at Jinnah International Airport, Karachi.

Over the past year, the Civil Aviation Authority has reactivated 14 airports for domestic flights, while the Federal Investigation Agency has increased staff and counters for passenger convenience.

Work is progressing rapidly on the installation of E-Gates under automated border management systems at major airports, and an 'Air Cargo Village' is being developed in Karachi to make it an air cargo hub.

A 'Meet and Greet' service has been introduced at Islamabad Airport, and the Federal Investigation Agency has established 'Pre-Departure Desks' at major airports to provide timely guidance to passengers.

The existing aviation institution in Hyderabad is being upgraded into an international-standard aviation university, with work set to commence by February 2028.

Background

Pakistan's airports have faced criticism for poor service and outdated infrastructure, with many passengers complaining about long wait times, inadequate facilities, and inefficient processing.

The expansion and upgrade of major airports are part of a broader effort to modernize the country's aviation sector and improve the travel experience for passengers.