Efforts underway to increase air traffic, enhance Gwadar Airport’s operational viability

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 30th Jun, 2026) The Senate Standing Committee on Defence was informed on Tuesday that efforts were underway to increase air traffic and enhance the operational viability of Gwadar International Airport.

The committee which met with Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood in the Chair was told that following the recent de-escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran and the reopening of Iranian airspace, regional air traffic patterns may improve, creating opportunities for greater utilization of Gwadar Airport.

The committee deliberated on matters of public importance, including inflated airfares on the Quetta route, the condition of Karachi's Jinnah International Airport, the pilots' licensing issue, measures to enhance air traffic at Gwadar International Airport, climate-related disasters, and other defence-related matters.

The Committee also discussed measures to enhance operations at Gwadar International Airport.

The Chairman directed the authorities to accelerate efforts to attract increased air traffic and fully operationalize the Gwardar airport.

Reviewing the condition of Karachi's Jinnah International Airport, the Committee expressed concern over the absence of basic passenger facilities and the deteriorating state of infrastructure.

Officials informed the Senate panel that an upgradation plan was under consideration and that airport privatization was being explored to attract investment and improve service standards.

The Chairman directed the Ministry to submit a detailed report on the existing deficiencies, proposed development plans, and timelines for implementation. Further deliberations on the matter were deferred until submission of the report.

The Committee received a detailed briefing from the Director General of the Pakistan Meteorological Department on Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) events, the upcoming monsoon season, flood preparedness, and early warning systems.

Stressing the growing challenges posed by climate change and global warming, Chairman of the committee, Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood directed all relevant authorities to remain vigilant and ensure timely preventive measures to safeguard lives and property.

The Committee also took up the issue of alleged commercial activities in residential areas of Rawalpindi Cantonment in violation of court directives.

Defence Minister Khwaja Muhammad Asif assured the Committee that the matter would be reviewed by the cantonment authorities and appropriate action would be taken in accordance with the law.

Discussing the issue of unusually high airfares on the Quetta route, the Committee sought details of the mechanism used for airfare determination.

The Defence Minister informed members that airfares were market-driven and that the Ministry of Defence was not the regulatory authority responsible for fixing or capping fares.

The Committee, however, emphasized that remote and less-developed regions, including Quetta, Gilgit, Chitral, and similar areas, must remain adequately connected through air services.

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The Chairman directed that mandatory flight operations on socio-economic routes should be ensured by incorporating appropriate licensing conditions.

The Defence Minister assured full cooperation, while the Committee also directed the Ministry to submit details of airlines penalized for failing to meet the mandatory requirement of operating flights to underserved regions.

Representatives of various airlines also briefed the Committee on the operational and commercial viability of these routes.

Members expressed concern over the frequent cancellation of flights to Gilgit, Chitral, and Quetta, allegedly on the pretext of adverse weather conditions, and called for a thorough investigation into the matter.

The Chairman urged airlines to expand operations to these destinations and directed the Ministry of Defence to take effective measures to ensure regular flight operations in the larger public interest.

He appreciated Air Sial for its services and encouraged all airlines to induct ATR aircraft to improve connectivity to remote regions.

The Committee also reviewed the pilots' licensing issue in light of the controversy that adversely affected Pakistan's aviation sector.

Officials informed the Committee that the matter has largely been resolved, while the remaining licenses are undergoing strict scrutiny.

The Committee strongly condemned the irresponsible and controversial statements made by the former Aviation Minister, observing that they severely damaged Pakistan's international aviation reputation and caused substantial financial losses.

The Chairman appreciated the recent privatization of PIA and expressed optimism that the national aviation sector would continue to recover with the restoration and expansion of international routes, particularly to Europe.

The Committee directed the Ministry to submit a comprehensive report on the matter.

The Committee further examined allegations regarding the reported violation of PPRA rules in the proposed Rs. 20 billion E-Gate Project.

The Defence Minister clarified that no such contract had been awarded and assured the Committee that complete transparency and parliamentary oversight would be ensured.

The Chairman directed that all procurement processes must strictly comply with the law and principles of transparency.

The meeting was attended by Senators Dr. Afnan Ullah Khan, Atta-ul-Haq Kamran Murtaza, Danesh Kumar, and Syed

Masroor Ahsan participated.. Former Senator Muhammad Zahid also attended as a special invitee.

Federal Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), airlines, and relevant departments briefed the Committee.