Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the expansion of Lahore and Karachi airports in line with their master plans.
During a high-level meeting in Islamabad, he directed officials to complete the projects within the specified timelines. He also stressed that authorities must maintain quality and meet international standards.
The prime minister said passenger convenience must remain the top priority at all Pakistani airports. He also called for independent third-party assessments of expansion projects and reforms aimed at improving travel facilities.
Focus on Passenger Services and Staff Training
Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to engage internationally recognised organisations to improve airport facilities and passenger services.
He also called for regular training for airport officers and staff to improve service delivery. In addition, he stressed the need for better coordination among the different agencies operating at airports.
The prime minister further directed officials to hire reputable catering companies and maintain high standards for food and beverages served to passengers.
During the meeting, officials presented findings from a recent survey conducted by an international firm to assess service standards at major airports.
Karachi Airport Runway Expansion Completed
The meeting reviewed expansion plans for Karachi and Lahore airports, alongside ongoing development and upgrading work by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) at airports across Pakistan.
Officials confirmed that runway expansion work at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi has been completed.
They also reported that the CAA had reactivated 14 airports for domestic flights over the past year. Meanwhile, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has increased staffing and added counters to improve passenger facilitation.
E-Gates and Air Cargo Hub Under Development
Work on electronic gates, or E-Gates, under automated border management systems is progressing at major airports. These systems aim to improve passenger processing.
Furthermore, authorities are developing an Air Cargo Village to position Karachi as an air cargo hub.
At Islamabad International Airport, officials have introduced a “Meet and Greet” service to assist passengers. Similarly, the FIA has established pre-departure desks at major airports to provide timely guidance and support.
Hyderabad Aviation Institution to Become University
The meeting also reviewed plans to upgrade an existing aviation institution in Hyderabad into an international-standard aviation university.
According to the briefing, work on the project is scheduled to begin by February 2028.
The planned upgrade forms part of broader efforts to develop aviation facilities and services across Pakistan. The prime minister stressed that airport expansion and related reforms should improve the passenger experience while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.
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