New terminal at Lahore airport to double passenger capacity this year

By Wasif Mahmood 

Lahore: Air travellers at Allama Iqbal International Airport (AIIAP), long plagued by overcrowding, extended waiting times and delays in baggage collection, are expected to see relief as a new terminal nears completion and is likely to become operational later this year.

According to officials, the project will increase the airport’s annual passenger capacity from five million to 10 million, helping reduce congestion and improve overall efficiency.

Project Director at AIIAP's New Terminal, Engineer Tauqeer Iqbal, in a conversation with GNN News website, said the Rs26 billion project would be completed within the current year. He added that the terminal building and its infrastructure had already been finalised.

He said airports served as the “first impression” of any country, adding that the Pakistan Airports Authority was also focusing on the aesthetic uplift and modernisation of the facility to present a positive image of the country.

The new facility includes an additional 144 arrival and departure counters aimed at facilitating smoother passenger movement. The commercial area is also being expanded to accommodate both local and international brands.

Officials said the terminal would offer modern amenities comparable to those available at international airports, with a particular focus on easing passenger inconvenience.

The expansion will also enable the airport to handle multiple flight operations simultaneously. The number of baggage conveyor belts is being increased to five to ensure quicker delivery of luggage, regardless of weather conditions.

In addition, aircraft parking capacity is being enhanced, allowing four to five more planes to be accommodated. The number of check-in counters for domestic and international airlines has also been increased, while automated boarding card machines have been installed to streamline the process.

Officials maintained that even during adverse weather conditions or peak travel times, passengers would not face prolonged waiting periods.

The Pakistan Airports Authority says the initiative is part of efforts to upgrade airport infrastructure and provide improved services to travellers.