The Pakistani government has reportedly made a decision to lease the new Islamabad International Airport to international investors. This move comes after encountering difficulties in outsourcing two other airports in Karachi and Lahore. The Islamabad airport is seen as an attractive option due to its perceived “clean” transaction. The government is eager to move forward promptly with this process.
Challenges in Outsourcing Airports:
While the decision to lease the airports to international entities has been made, there are practical challenges that need to be addressed before the handover takes place. These challenges include the outstanding debts of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), which may impact the provision of free facilities to the airline by the new airport operator. Furthermore, certain sections of the airports in Karachi and Lahore are currently occupied by relevant agencies, necessitating a permanent solution to enable potential investors to utilize the entire airport for commercial purposes.
Ensuring a Smooth Transition:
To facilitate a seamless transition and overcome the aforementioned challenges, the government is actively working to find suitable solutions. Addressing the debts of PIA and ensuring the provision of necessary facilities by the new airport operator to the national carrier will be vital for the success of the outsourcing endeavor. Additionally, finding a permanent resolution to the issue of occupied sections in Karachi and Lahore airports will enable potential investors to make full use of the airport’s commercial space.
Government’s Approach:
Although the government has not yet initiated the advertising process for outsourcing, it is actively engaged in resolving the raised concerns. A presentation by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to Finance Minister Ishaq Dar highlighted the interest of various parties in managing all three airports. However, before proceeding with the outsourcing plan, it is imperative to address the practical issues to ensure effective management and commercial utilization of these airports.
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Moving Forward:
The decision to lease the new Islamabad International Airport to international investors signifies the government’s commitment to streamlining airport operations and enhancing efficiency. By involving international expertise and capital, the aim is to improve service quality and maximize the potential of these airports. The government’s proactive approach in addressing the challenges demonstrates its determination to ensure a smooth transition for both the new airport operator and the national carrier, PIA.
As the government continues to work towards finding solutions, it is expected that the advertising process for outsourcing the airports will commence in due course. This strategic move is poised to boost Pakistan’s aviation sector and contribute to the country’s economic growth in the long run.
