Non-functional airports in Pakistan causing losses to national exchequer
The Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA)
is incurring significant financial losses due to the inactivity of eight
airports across the country. These airports include Bannu, Dalbandin,
Parachinar, Khuzdar, Rawalakot, Saidu Sharif, Sehwan Sharif, and Sibi, with the
accumulated losses running into millions of rupees.
Despite the suspension of flight
operations, staff continue to be stationed at these airports, and monthly
salaries along with operational expenses remain a financial burden on the
organization.
Read More Pakistan’s
inactive regional airport incurs rising costs
Recently, Pakistan has moved to open
three of its major airports for outsourcing, signaling a shift in strategy to
manage these facilities more effectively. The PAA reaffirmed its commitment to
maintaining a safe and accessible air network nationwide, with a spokesperson
noting that the organization is focused on providing secure and efficient air
travel. The spokesperson also mentioned that non-functional airports are
sometimes used for receiving foreign dignitaries or as diversion sites for
other flights when necessary.
In a related development, a Turkish
company recently received technical approval for its bid to manage Islamabad
International Airport as part of the airport outsourcing initiative. However,
representatives from two other companies were disqualified from the bidding
process due to late submissions. The Turkish company's proposal, which was the
highest bid, is now under evaluation by the PAA's Board of Directors.
Read More Pakistan’s
Sukkur, DI Khan airports elevated to international status
The airport outsourcing initiative
was overseen by a committee led by the Secretary of Aviation, who will present
the Turkish company’s proposal for final consideration after a comprehensive
review.
Source: ARY
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