New airport outside Peshawar to replace Bacha Khan International Airport
Authorities have initiated planning for the
construction of a new airport outside Peshawar,
as part of efforts to address growing urban, security, and operational
challenges associated with the city’s existing aviation infrastructure.
A meeting between officials of the Pakistan Airports
Authority (PAA) and the Commissioner of Peshawar Division focused on
identifying a suitable site for the proposed airport, which is expected to
replace the current Bacha Khan International
Airport.
Need for Relocation
Officials highlighted that the existing airport, located within the city, has increasingly become a source of concern due to traffic congestion, security constraints, and rapid urban expansion. With population growth and rising air traffic, authorities believe relocating the airport to a less densely populated area is essential for long-term planning and safety.
Read More KP
Governor calls for restoration of PIA operations from Peshawar
The proposed new airport is expected to
require approximately 2,500 acres of land, necessitating careful selection of a
location that meets both operational and environmental requirements while
minimizing disruption to local communities.
Potential Locations
Under Review
During the meeting, several potential sites
were discussed, including areas around Mathani, Azakhel, Surizai, Mamo Khatki,
Naaguman, and Bara Akakhel. These locations are being evaluated based on
factors such as accessibility, safety, land availability, and distance from
populated zones.
Authorities indicated that recommendations for
the most suitable site will soon be submitted to Sohail
Afridi and Syed Shahab Ali Shah for
final approval.
Committee Formed for
Site Selection
Commissioner Peshawar Division Riaz Khan Mehsud has directed the formation of a
committee to carry out detailed assessments of the proposed locations. The
committee, to be led by the Additional Deputy Commissioner (General), will
include representatives from the Revenue Department, PAA officials, and other
technical experts.
The committee is tasked with conducting surveys, completing preliminary studies, and preparing recommendations for the new airport site. Officials emphasized the importance of completing initial groundwork promptly to move the project forward.
Read More Saudi
Arabia’s Flyadeal launches flight operations to Peshawar and Islamabad
Strategic Importance
Participants in the meeting described the
project as critical for the region’s development, citing its potential to
improve urban planning, enhance security, and support economic growth. A modern
airport outside city limits could also allow for future expansion and improved
passenger handling capacity.
A follow-up meeting is scheduled in the coming
weeks to review progress and ensure timely implementation of decisions.
If approved, the new airport project would mark a major shift in aviation infrastructure for Peshawar, aligning it with broader national efforts to modernize airport facilities and accommodate increasing air travel demand.
Source:
APP