By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: Amid its ongoing privatization drive, the federal government has announced the inclusion of Islamabad International Airport (IIAP) in its active privatization program.
The Ministry of Privatization said the move aligns with the ongoing privatization of Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport (JIAP) and Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport (AIIAP). The aim is to enhance efficiency, improve service delivery, maximize revenue, upgrade infrastructure, and attract both domestic and international private-sector investment.
Officials told The News that the decision effectively ends months of stalled talks with the United Arab Emirates. Pakistan has engaged with potential partners from the UAE, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and other international players as part of broader efforts to modernize the aviation sector.
The government plans to outsource airport operations through management contracts or long-term commercial concessions to boost efficiency, improve infrastructure, and increase revenue. Officials emphasized that the process is guided purely by economic and procedural considerations. They said the competitive framework is designed to ensure transparency, fair competition, and the best possible outcome for Pakistan’s economy, while keeping doors open for partners from friendly nations and beyond.
The ministry also stressed that engagement continues with international stakeholders, including the UAE, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. Responding to reports suggesting the cancellation of a proposed agreement with the UAE for Islamabad airport, the ministry categorically denied such claims, stating that “no such agreement or lease was ever signed for any of the airports, including Islamabad International Airport.”
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