The federal government has approved the inclusion of Islamabad International Airport in the active privatisation list as part of its broader strategy to attract private sector participation in the aviation sector, according to official sources.
The decision comes after plans to pursue a government-to-government arrangement for the management and operations of the airport were set aside. Authorities subsequently opted to move forward under the country’s existing privatisation framework.
Officials said Islamabad International Airport will now be considered alongside Jinnah International Airport Karachi and Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore for potential privatisation or outsourcing. The move is aimed at improving operational efficiency, service quality and long-term sustainability of major aviation assets.
Previously, discussions had been held with international partners regarding the management of Islamabad Airport, and a negotiation committee was formed to explore available options. However, following procedural delays, the government decided to place the airport on the active privatisation list to ensure progress under a transparent and competitive process.
The Privatisation Division submitted a summary to the Cabinet Committee on Privatisation, which approved the inclusion of Islamabad Airport after earlier clearing Karachi and Lahore airports for similar consideration.
Officials said the decision aligns with the government’s wider privatisation agenda and reflects efforts to modernise infrastructure, enhance service delivery and attract investment in the aviation sector.
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