According to reports from the media, the government of Pakistan has made the decision to lease out the newly constructed New Islamabad Airport to international investors initially. This move comes after encountering challenges in outsourcing two other airports located in Karachi and Lahore.
The new Islamabad airport has been identified as an attractive option for outsourcing due to its perceived transparency and integrity. The government is determined to expedite the process and proceed with this endeavor promptly.
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Finance Minister About New Islamabad Airport
In their presentation to Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) has expressed the interest of various parties in overseeing the management of all three airports. Nonetheless, there are pragmatic obstacles that must be tackled before entrusting the airports to international entities.
The provision of complimentary amenities to the airline by the new airport operator may be impacted due to the outstanding debts of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).
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Furthermore, the complete utilization of the airports in Karachi and Lahore for commercial purposes by potential investors requires a lasting solution to address the current occupation by relevant agencies.
Prioritizing the resolution of these practical challenges and ensuring a seamless transition is of utmost importance before embarking on the outsourcing of the airports.
While the government has not initiated the advertising process for outsourcing at present, it is actively engaged in seeking remedies for the raised concerns. By doing so, it aims to enable efficient management and maximize the commercial potential of these airports.