Islamabad, 23 Apr,2025: Construction of New Airports has been officially approved by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), as work begins on two major aviation projects in Muzaffarabad and Sukkur.
The development is expected to enhance connectivity and meet the growing air travel demand in these regions.
According to insiders, construction of new airports will be managed under the supervision of a newly formed committee responsible for overseeing land acquisition and site development.
The Department of Works and Development has reportedly started initial groundwork at both locations. The projects are estimated to cost several billion rupees and are scheduled for completion within five years.
To ensure professional execution, the PAA intends to hire consultants and aviation experts, who will guide the construction and planning phases of the airports. These experts will play a key role in shaping the infrastructure to meet modern aviation standards.
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In Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the construction of new airports has long been awaited by overseas Pakistanis, particularly those with Kashmiri roots.
Responding to years of requests, the federal government has finally moved forward, aligning with a pledge made earlier by the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to address this need.
Support from British lawmakers of Kashmiri heritage has also influenced the decision. Several Members of Parliament in the UK wrote to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, requesting prompt action on the Muzaffarabad airport plan. Their appeal highlighted the importance of direct access for families and visitors traveling from abroad.
In a recent development, the PAA has issued a public notice inviting consulting firms to express interest in handling the Muzaffarabad project.
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The tender process is expected to follow standard regulatory procedures to ensure transparency.
The construction of new airports in these key areas reflects Pakistan’s broader commitment to infrastructure growth and improved access to underserved regions.
Once operational, the Muzaffarabad and Sukkur airports are likely to enhance local economies, reduce travel burdens, and provide a new gateway for both business and tourism activities.
