The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has announced a major development plan for Dera Ghazi Khan Airport, signaling renewed attention to smaller regional airports across the country.
Speaking at the monthly DG PAA E-Kachehri session, Deputy Director General Sameer Saeed confirmed that the runway at DG Khan Airport will be extended to 3,000 meters in length and 45 meters in width. This expansion will allow the airport to manage larger aircraft and improve operational flexibility. Construction is expected to wrap up by December 2026.
Officials hope the upgrade will encourage airlines to start or resume commercial flights to the region, which has long relied on limited air connectivity.
Sukkur Airport Plans in Motion
Saeed also unveiled that feasibility studies are underway for a new Sukkur International Airport. Authorities are exploring whether to build a new facility or upgrade the existing one to meet international aviation standards. The move is depicting growing passenger traffic from northern Sindh and parts of Balochistan.
The Deputy DG Works and Development clarified a common misconception: Dera Ghazi Khan and Hyderabad airports are already operational, but the start of flights depends entirely on airlines’ commercial decisions, not the airport authorities.
Addressing Passenger Concerns
The session brought together senior officials from planning, operations, human resources, commercial services, and the Simulation Quality Management System (SQMS). The meeting was not just about development projects—passenger complaints were also a central emphasis.
Participants raised issues such as:
• Mishandling or loss of baggage
• Costly baggage wrapping services
• Slow or unclear airline refund processes
• Unprofessional staff behavior
Additional concerns were reported from airports in Islamabad, Peshawar, and Sialkot, including
- High parking charges
- Unlicensed forklift use
- Difficulties encountered by passengers during check-in and security.
Officials assured attendees that these operational and customer service problems would be resolved on a priority basis.
A Step Toward Better Connectivity
With the DG Khan runway expansion and planning for Sukkur’s upgraded airport, the PAA is signaling a long-term strategy to strengthen regional air travel and improve the passenger experience. These projects are anticipated to create
- Economic opportunities
- Support local mobility
- Modernize airport infrastructure across Pakistan