Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the expansion of Lahore and Karachi airports, aligning with their respective master plans. In a high-level meeting chaired by the Prime Minister in Islamabad, directives were issued to complete these projects within the specified timeframe, adhering to international standards.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister emphasized passenger convenience as a top priority for Pakistani airports. He instructed that third-party validation be ensured for both the expansion projects and the reforms aimed at enhancing travel facilities. The Prime Minister recommended engaging internationally reputed organizations to improve airport amenities and emphasized the need for regular training for officers and staff who provide services to passengers.

During the meeting, it was also highlighted that the runway expansion at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi has been completed. Over the past year, the Civil Aviation Authority has reactivated 14 airports for domestic flights, and the FIA has increased staff and counters to facilitate passengers.

Moreover, significant progress has been made on the installation of E-Gates under automated border management systems at major airports. An ‘Air Cargo Village’ is also under development to transform Karachi into an air cargo hub. At Islamabad Airport, a ‘Meet and Greet’ service has been introduced, and ‘Pre-Departure Desks’ have been established by the FIA to offer timely guidance to passengers.

Additionally, the existing aviation institution in Hyderabad is being upgraded to an international-standard aviation university, with work expected to commence by February 2028.