Efforts Intensify to Position Gwadar Airport as a Regional Aviation Hub
The Senate Standing Committee on Defence has emphasized the need to accelerate efforts aimed at increasing air traffic and improving the operational viability of Gwadar International Airport, highlighting its strategic importance for regional connectivity and Pakistan’s long-term aviation development.
During a meeting chaired by Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood, committee members were informed that recent geopolitical developments, including the de-escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran and the reopening of Iranian airspace, could positively influence regional flight patterns. Officials noted that these changes present new opportunities to attract greater air traffic through Gwadar International Airport and strengthen its role in regional aviation.
The committee reviewed a broad range of aviation and defence-related matters, including measures to enhance operations at Gwadar International Airport, airfares on the Quetta route, the condition of Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, pilots’ licensing, climate-related challenges, and aviation connectivity across underserved regions.
Focusing on Gwadar International Airport, the committee directed relevant authorities to expedite initiatives that would increase airline operations, improve passenger traffic, and ensure the airport becomes fully operational. Members stressed that maximizing the airport's utilization would contribute to regional trade, economic development, and improved connectivity for Balochistan.
The committee also expressed concern over the deteriorating infrastructure and limited passenger facilities at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport. Officials informed members that an airport modernization plan is under consideration, while privatization options are being explored to attract investment and enhance service quality. The Ministry was instructed to submit a comprehensive report outlining current deficiencies, proposed development projects, and implementation timelines.
Climate resilience was another key area of discussion as the Director General of the Pakistan Meteorological Department briefed the committee on Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) risks, the upcoming monsoon season, flood preparedness, and early warning systems. Chairman Senator Talha Mahmood urged all relevant agencies to remain vigilant and strengthen preventive measures to protect lives and infrastructure from climate-related disasters.
The committee also examined the issue of commercial activities in residential areas of Rawalpindi Cantonment. Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif assured members that cantonment authorities would review the matter and take action in accordance with applicable laws.
Addressing concerns over unusually high airfares on the Quetta route, the committee sought details regarding airfare determination mechanisms. The Defence Minister explained that domestic airfares are market-driven and fall outside the Ministry of Defence's regulatory responsibilities. Nevertheless, the committee emphasized the importance of maintaining reliable air connectivity for remote regions such as Quetta, Gilgit, Chitral, and other underserved areas.
To strengthen regional access, the committee directed authorities to incorporate mandatory flight operations on socio-economic routes into airline licensing conditions. It also requested details of penalties imposed on airlines that failed to operate required services to remote destinations.
Representatives of several airlines briefed members on the operational and commercial challenges associated with these routes. Committee members expressed concern over frequent flight cancellations to Gilgit, Chitral, and Quetta, often attributed to adverse weather, and called for a thorough review of the issue. Airlines were encouraged to expand services, while Air Sial received appreciation for its operational performance. The committee also encouraged carriers to induct ATR aircraft to improve access to remote airports.
The meeting further reviewed the pilots' licensing issue that previously affected Pakistan's aviation sector. Officials informed members that most licensing matters have now been resolved, while the remaining cases continue to undergo strict verification. The committee criticized controversial statements made by a former aviation minister, stating that they had damaged Pakistan's international aviation reputation and resulted in significant financial losses.
Chairman Talha Mahmood welcomed the recent privatization of PIA and expressed optimism that Pakistan's aviation industry would continue its recovery through the restoration and expansion of international routes, particularly to Europe. The Ministry was directed to submit a comprehensive report on the sector's ongoing reforms.
The committee also examined allegations concerning the proposed Rs. 20 billion E-Gate Project. Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif clarified that no contract had been awarded and assured members that all procurement processes would remain fully transparent and subject to parliamentary oversight. The committee reiterated that all future procurements must strictly comply with legal requirements and principles of transparency.
The meeting was attended by members of the Senate Standing Committee on Defence, senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), airline representatives, and other relevant departments, who provided detailed briefings on the issues under review.