PM Shehbaz Approves Major Expansion of Lahore, Karachi Airports

Islamabad – (Staff Reporter/Web Desk) – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the expansion of Lahore, Karachi airports under their master plans. He told officials to finish both projects on time and meet international standards.

He chaired a meeting on airport expansion and passenger facilitation in Islamabad on Thursday. He said passenger comfort must stay the top priority at every airport in the country.

The prime minister ordered no compromise on construction quality. He also asked for third-party checks on reforms meant to improve airport buildings and passenger services.

The meeting reviewed a recent survey by an international firm. The survey looked at the quality of passenger facilities at major airports.

He asked officials to hire well-known international organisations to improve airport services. Staff who deal with passengers should also get regular training in customer service.

The prime minister stressed better coordination among the agencies working at airports. He also directed authorities to hire reputable caterers and said food and drink quality must never be compromised.

Officials told the meeting that the runway expansion at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi is complete. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) also reopened 14 airports over the past year to restart domestic flights.

The meeting heard that E-Gates, which are automated border systems, are being installed quickly at major airports. Work is also moving ahead on an Air Cargo Village to make Karachi an air cargo hub.

A Meet and Greet service has started at Islamabad International Airport. The FIA has set up pre-departure desks at major airports and has added more staff and counters.

Officials also said an aviation institution in Hyderabad will be upgraded into an aviation university. Work on it is expected to begin by February 2028.