Islamabad Airport's main runway to be temporarily closed
The primary runway at Islamabad International Airport will
be temporarily closed for maintenance during the last days of September,
affecting early morning and nighttime operations. This information was
disclosed on Monday by a spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
The runway will be inaccessible for routine rubber cleaning
f
rom September 25th to September 30th. Cleaning operations will take place
during the following hours:
Morning Cleaning: 05:30 to 08:30 hrs
Nighttime Cleaning: 10:30 to 13:00 hrs
It's important to note that flight operations will continue
uninterrupted during the cleaning process, as a secondary runway will be
available for use at all times.
PCCA
commences pre-bidding process for outsourcing Islamabad airport
Islamabad International Airport is a crucial hub for both
domestic and international travel in Pakistan.
In related news, the government recently decided to
outsource airport operations for a 15-year period during the final days of the
Pakistan Democratic Movement's government. The Ministry of Finance has approved
this move, with Anwarul Haq Kakar serving as the caretaker prime minister.
While specific details about the outsourcing are forthcoming, it's anticipated
that a third party will manage administrative and financial affairs, as well as
oversee the design and construction of the airport. Matters related to service
charges, exchange rates, and shop rentals will also fall under the purview of
the third party. However, security, customs, and immigration services at the
airport will remain the responsibility of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
PCAA
to construct tallest building in Islamabad
Initial reports suggest that the third party may also
establish shopping malls and branded shops within the airport premises.
Notably, Khawaja Saad Rafique, the former Aviation Minister, had previously
stated that while the airport would be outsourced, navigational services and
runway operations would continue to be managed by the CAA. The government has
engaged the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a World Bank subsidiary,
as a consultant for the outsourcing process, and several companies have expressed
interest. Rafique assured that competitive bidding and adherence to public
procurement rules would be strictly followed, and there would be no job losses
as a result of the outsourcing initiative. He emphasized that Islamabad
International Airport would be the first in Pakistan to undergo such
outsourcing, with a commitment to implementing the best international practices
in its operation.
Source: Daily Pakistan