Islamabad (The COW News Digital) Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved expansion plans for Lahore and Karachi airports under their respective master plans, directing authorities to complete the projects within timelines and ensure compliance with international standards.
the prime minister stressed that airport development must prioritise passenger convenience, service quality and international best practices. He instructed officials not to compromise on construction standards and to ensure that the expansion projects are completed within their specified deadlines.
Sharif also called for independent third-party validation of the proposed improvements and reforms aimed at enhancing passenger facilities. He directed authorities to seek the expertise of internationally recognised organisations to improve airport services and operational standards.
The prime minister emphasised the need to provide regular, high-quality training to airport officers and staff responsible for assisting passengers. He also called for better coordination among the various departments operating at airports to ensure smoother travel experiences.
Food services were another area of focus during the meeting. Sharif instructed authorities to engage reputable catering companies and maintain high standards for food and beverages available to passengers.
Officials briefed the meeting on a recent survey conducted by an international firm to assess service standards at major airports across the country. The meeting also reviewed expansion plans for Karachi and Lahore airports, alongside ongoing development and upgrading projects being undertaken by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
According to the briefing, runway expansion work at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport has been completed. Authorities also outlined the master plans for the two major airports, including the proposed construction schedules and measures to bring facilities in line with international requirements.
The meeting was further informed that the CAA had made 14 airports operational for domestic flights during the previous year, supporting efforts to restore and improve regional air connectivity.
Passenger processing facilities are also being upgraded. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has increased staffing levels and the number of counters to facilitate travellers. Work is progressing on installing automated border management systems, known as electronic gates or E-Gates, at major airports.
In Karachi, development work is underway on an air cargo village as part of plans to establish the city as a regional air cargo hub. The initiative is expected to strengthen cargo-handling infrastructure and support aviation-related commercial activity.
At Islamabad International Airport, a meet-and-greet service has been introduced to assist passengers. The FIA has also established pre-departure desks at major airports to provide timely guidance and improve the passenger experience.
The meeting also reviewed plans to upgrade an existing aviation institution in Hyderabad into an international-standard aviation university. Officials said work on the project is expected to begin by February 2028.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, other federal ministers, advisers, lawmakers and senior officials attended the meeting.
The approved airport expansion plans form part of broader efforts to modernise Pakistan’s aviation infrastructure. Their progress will depend on timely implementation, adherence to international standards and effective coordination among the departments responsible for delivering improved facilities.
