Faisalabad Airport to Accommodate 777 Aircraft

APP

Faisalabad: Faisalabad International Airport will be capable of accommodating Boeing 777 aircraft following the expansion of its runway. A state-of-the-art cargo complex is also planned, subject to completion of required formalities and permissions, according to Airport Manager Ms. Tasneem Akhtar Jameel.

Addressing the business community at the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI), she urged exporters to share data on cargo load to expedite the project. She expressed optimism that airlines that had suspended operations from Faisalabad would soon resume services.

Ms. Jameel highlighted that new airlines would be allotted slots without any hindrance and emphasized that Faisalabad Airport conducts 100% baggage scanning, unlike Lahore. She also noted that Faisalabad Airport is recognized as the most secure and safe airport in the country.

Business Community’s Insights

FCCI President Mr. Rehan Naseem Bharara recalled that Faisalabad gained international aviation connectivity in 2014-15 due to FCCI’s efforts, with 120 weekly flights before COVID-19.

However, the current operations have reduced to just 32 flights. He urged FCCI member Kashif Zia to prepare a detailed report on the region’s cargo potential to address the issue promptly.

Former FCCI President Mian Javed Iqbal suggested that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) approach airlines such as Fly Dubai, Fly Jinnah, Air Blue, and Air Sial to resume or start operations at Faisalabad Airport, leveraging its untapped potential.

He also emphasized the need to install cargo scanners to avoid routing shipments through Lahore and Sialkot airports.

Future Initiatives

He proposed exploring two options: maximizing the existing airport’s potential or initiating groundwork for a new airport. He also suggested launching a flying club at Faisalabad Airport and urged the FCCI to engage with customs, FIA, and ANF officials to resolve issues faced by the business community.

Token of Appreciation

During the meeting, FCCI President Mr. Bharara, along with Mian Javed Iqbal and Nadeem Iqbal, presented an FCCI shield to Ms. Tasneem Akhtar Jameel, who reciprocated with a memento of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The meeting was attended by FCCI Senior Vice President Mr. Qaisar Shams Guccha, former presidents Muzammil Sultan, Mian Aftab, Shabbir Hussain Chawala, and executive members including Muhammad Ali, Hamid Gillani, and Naveed Gulzar.