Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved plans to expand Karachi and Lahore airports, directing authorities to upgrade passenger facilities and complete construction work within the set deadlines.
Chairing a meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister said airport expansion projects must meet international standards, with passenger convenience and service quality remaining the top priorities.
He directed authorities to have the expansion plans and proposed reforms reviewed by independent third parties. He also called for international experts and institutions to help improve airport facilities and ordered formal training for staff dealing with passengers.
Shehbaz stressed the need for better coordination among agencies operating at airports. He also directed authorities to hire reputable catering companies and ensure that food quality meets the required standards.
Officials presented the master plans for Jinnah International Airport in Karachi and Lahore Airport, including details of proposed expansions and construction schedules. The prime minister directed the authorities to follow international construction standards and meet the deadlines.
The meeting was also briefed on development and upgrading projects being carried out by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Officials said the runway expansion at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport had been completed.
More Airport Upgrades Planned
Officials said the CAA had made 14 airports operational for domestic flights over the past year.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has increased staffing and added counters to improve passenger facilitation. Pre-departure desks have also been established at major airports to guide travelers.
Authorities are working to install automated border management systems, including electronic gates, at major airports. An air cargo village is also being developed to help establish Karachi as a regional air cargo hub.
The meeting was further informed that a meet-and-greet service had been launched at Islamabad International Airport to assist passengers.
Aviation University Planned in Hyderabad
Officials also briefed the meeting on plans to upgrade an existing aviation institution in Hyderabad into an international-standard aviation university.
Work on the project is expected to begin by February 2028.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers, lawmakers, the prime minister’s advisers and senior government officials.
