PM Shehbaz directs better facilities at airports
1. ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif directed to increase counters during international flights to shorten passengers’ lengthy wait times, urging concerned officials to improve facilities for travelers, passengers, and overseas Pakistanis at all airports.
During a review meeting focused on aviation sector reforms, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed that the safety audit for the current calendar year be completed as soon as possible.
He recalled that during his previous tenure as prime minister, an aviation act was enacted to support reforms within the sector.
Prime Minister Shehbaz urged the full implementation of all policy measures and reforms outlined in the Aviation Act, emphasizing that these efforts have put Pakistan's aviation sector on the right track.
Highlighting the importance of tourism promotion, the prime minister stressed the need for top-tier passenger facilities at Skardu International Airport and requested a detailed action plan for the expansion of both Skardu International Airport and Gilgit Airport.
PM Shehbaz also expressed satisfaction with the progress in the aviation sector, attributing it to the ongoing reforms. He noted that the installation of automatic immigration gates under the automated border control system would further enhance passenger convenience.
The meeting included a comprehensive briefing on the aviation sector reforms. It was noted that the Aviation Act 2023 has driven significant changes, including the separation of the Airport Management Authority from the Civil Aviation Authority, which is leading to more efficient operations and regulatory oversight. Third-party validation is being ensured for all new projects and initiatives. Additionally, at Lahore Airport, the number of counters has been increased, and the waiting area has been expanded to improve passenger convenience.
The meeting also covered plans to begin work on a feasibility report for the expansion of Skardu Airport. A request for proposal (RFP) has been received for the installation of Automated Border Control systems at airports. The participants discussed suggestions for enhancing passenger facilities nationwide and expanding private company flights for tourists within Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz directed that these measures be completed within a specified timeframe and stressed the importance of transparency throughout the process.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Ministers Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Ahad Khan Cheema, and other high-ranking officials.
