PM approves expansion of Lahore, Karachi airports

ISLAMABAD - Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif endorsed plans to expand airports in Lahore and Karachi on Thursday, instructing officials to finalize the projects within set deadlines while adhering to international standards. During a meeting on airport expansion and passenger amenities, the prime minister emphasized that passenger convenience should be the foremost priority at all airports.

He advocated for third-party validation of development projects and reforms designed to enhance the travel experience. Sharif ordered the engagement of internationally recognized firms to elevate airport services, promote consistent staff training for passenger interactions, and improve coordination among airport agencies. The meeting was briefed on an evaluation survey by an international firm assessing service standards at major airports, as well as expansion projects for Karachi and Lahore airports.

Officials reported that the runway extension at Karachi's Jinnah International Airport had already been completed. The prime minister directed that the expansion of Karachi and Lahore airports, as per their respective master plans, would be completed within the stipulated timelines and to international standards. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) had made 14 airports operational for domestic flights in the past year, and work on installing automated border-management systems, including e-gates, at major airports was progressing rapidly.

An air cargo village to transform Karachi into an air cargo hub was under construction, and a meet-and-greet service had been initiated at Islamabad airport. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had bolstered staffing and counter numbers to aid passengers. An existing aviation institution in Hyderabad was being transformed into an internationally recognized aviation university, with preparations to commence in February 2028.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Prime Minister's Adviser Muhammad Ali attended the meeting.