Runway upgrade at Karachi Airport progressing fast
The runway upgradation project at Jinnah
International Airport Karachi has crossed a major milestone, with 53% of the
work completed by the end of May 2025—surpassing the targeted progress of 51%.
The overhaul of Runway 07L/25R, launched in July
2024, aims to modernize one of Pakistan’s busiest runways and is on track for
completion by January 2026. Authorities have expedited construction with double-shift
operations to keep the project ahead of schedule.
A significant breakthrough came with the arrival
of the first shipment of imported Airfield Lighting (AFL) equipment, which will
improve aircraft visibility and safety during nighttime and low-visibility
operations.
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To support the new system, Pakistan Civil
Aviation Authority (PCAA) engineers recently underwent specialized
international training to ensure effective installation and long-term
maintenance of the AFL system.
With a total cost of Rs 8.3 billion, the
project is considered a landmark initiative in upgrading Pakistan’s aviation
infrastructure, aimed at improving safety and operational efficiency at
Karachi’s main international gateway.
A PCAA spokesperson emphasized the project
remains a top government priority, reinforcing national efforts to boost
airport capacity and modernization.
Earlier this year, the Pakistan Airports
Authority (PAA) announced plans to complete the upgrade of Karachi’s second
runway as part of broader infrastructure improvements.
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Expansion projects are also underway at Sukkur,
Skardu, and Dera Ghazi Khan airports to accommodate larger aircraft, with
Sukkur and Skardu expected to be operational for wide-body jets soon. A new
greenfield airport is also being planned for Dera Ismail Khan.
These updates were reviewed during the second
e-court session, chaired by Acting Director General (PAA) Air Vice Marshal
Zeeshan Saeed, alongside Deputy DG Airports Sadiqur Rehman and other senior
officials. The session focused on addressing passenger concerns and tackling
operational challenges, reaffirming the PAA’s commitment to enhancing airport
services nationwide.
Source: Times of Karachi