The Pakistani government has announced an open bidding process to outsource operations of the country’s three major airports: Islamabad International Airport, Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, and Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport.
The Privatization Commission confirmed that multiple models are being explored, including management contracts and long-term commercial concessions, to allow private investors to manage the airports efficiently.
Previously outside the privatization spotlight, Islamabad Airport is now included alongside Karachi and Lahore in the government’s strategic aviation program. The commission said the initiative aims to improve operational efficiency, enhance service quality, upgrade infrastructure, and boost revenue generation.
The announcement comes after expressions of interest from domestic and international investors in November 2025. Discussions have already been held with major stakeholders from the UAE, Turkiye, and Saudi Arabia, signaling global interest in Pakistan’s aviation sector.
Unlike earlier government-to-government arrangements, the new approach is based on open, competitive bidding. Officials emphasized that the move is purely economic and procedural, ensuring equal opportunities for both local and foreign investors.
Experts say that privatizing airports could transform Pakistan into a regional aviation hub while attracting billions in investment. The modernization and operational efficiency expected from private management are anticipated to improve passenger experiences and cargo handling at all three hubs.
The Privatization Commission clarified that the program does not have political or diplomatic motives and is designed to maintain transparency, accountability, and investor confidence. Authorities also confirmed that detailed guidelines for the bidding process would be shared publicly in the coming weeks.
Industry analysts believe the move will not only strengthen the aviation sector but also support economic growth and trade opportunities. The successful outsourcing of these key airports could set a precedent for future privatization of other state-owned infrastructure projects.
In other news read more about: Government Moves Islamabad Airport Privatisation to Open Bidding
With Pakistan opening its major airports to global competition, the initiative signals a significant step toward modernizing the aviation sector and boosting investor confidence in the country’s infrastructure projects.
