Airport Outsourcing Pakistan: Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad Airports to Be Run by Private Companies

The airports of Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad are outsourced and are approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The operations will be operated by specialty private firms, such as foreign companies that are headed by Pakistanis. The relocation is meant to enhance the quality of service, increase flights as well as increase revenue. Another decision is concerned with the restoration of Chitral route and regional airlines.

Pakistan Approves Airport Outsourcing

The government has approved outsourcing Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad airports. Private companies will manage day-to-day operations. The aim is to raise service standards and maintain profitability. The operations may involve foreign companies, but Pakistanis will lead management teams.

Defense Secretary Lt. Gen. (R) Muhammad Ali said PIA has been privatized, but aircraft and resource shortages remain. Currently, PIA operates 17–18 planes, running about 490 flights weekly. Routes to Europe and the UK are fully open.

Flights to Chitral were previously closed due to losses. The committee recommended restoring them. Secretary Ali said smaller planes could reopen regional routes. Pakistan has 62 of the world’s 100 highest mountains, yet only 15,000 hikers visit annually. There is potential for tourism growth in Chitral.

The committee discussed Pakistani workers in Saudi Arabia whose passports were held, and salaries unpaid for over a year. Details of the company have been obtained. Senator Umar Farooq raised DHA land issues. The secretary requested details to resolve complaints.

South Air is a new airline that will target Northern Balochistan. It will have 5-6 ATR aircraft in operation by June 2026, enhancing the connectivity in the region.

The process of outsourcing is based on the PPP. Bidding and evaluation is still in progress and not yet approved. UAE and Turkey companies have taken an interest. The government sources affirm that the purpose of outsourcing is to enhance the services and efficiency of the airport.