Pakistan Airports Authority has approved a major upgrade of air traffic control systems at Karachi and Lahore airports as part of a broader effort to modernise the country’s aviation infrastructure. The project, cleared by the Central Development Working Party through approval of its PC-1, will introduce advanced technology aimed at improving safety, operational efficiency, and real time flight management across both major aviation hubs. Officials confirmed that an international tender will be issued shortly, after which implementation work is expected to begin in phases.
The planned upgrade includes the installation of a modern air traffic control system along with an advanced flight management framework designed for the Karachi and Lahore Flight Information Regions. These systems are intended to replace existing infrastructure that has been in use for years and is now considered insufficient for growing air traffic demands. The new technology will enhance aircraft monitoring, navigation support, and communication between control towers and aircraft, ensuring smoother coordination during peak flight operations.
Authorities have highlighted that increasing air traffic across Pakistan’s major airports has made it necessary to adopt more advanced systems capable of handling higher operational complexity. The upgraded infrastructure is expected to improve continuous flight guidance and strengthen surveillance capabilities, allowing air traffic controllers to manage movements more effectively. Officials also noted that the system will contribute to reducing delays and improving overall flight safety standards in line with international aviation requirements.
The development is part of a wider push to modernise airport operations in Pakistan, which also includes parallel initiatives focused on passenger facilitation and security improvements such as unified screening systems and upgraded scanning technology. Together, these efforts aim to create a more integrated and efficient aviation ecosystem, improving coordination between institutions and enhancing the travel experience for passengers while strengthening operational reliability across key airports.
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