Pakistan’s government’s Economic Coordination Council (ECC) has delayed handing over management control of the country’s main airport to a foreign country, citing “national security concerns”. The decision, announced in early March 2023, has major implications for Pakistan’s aviation industry and its relations with participating countries.
It is proposed to transfer the management and control of Pakistan’s main airports to foreign countries to improve the quality of airport services and attract more international airlines to Pakistan. However, the ECC’s decision to postpone the handover suggests that the government is now rethinking its approach.
The ECC did not elaborate on the national security concerns that led to the decision, but the decision was likely influenced by geopolitical tensions and concerns about foreign influence on Pakistan’s infrastructure. A delay in the transfer of management control of a major airport could have a significant impact on Pakistan’s aviation industry. The country’s airports already face major challenges, including aging infrastructure, poor service and security issues. The ECC’s decision to delay the transfer of management control could further delay much-needed improvements to Pakistan’s airports, harming the country’s ability to attract international airlines and compete in the global aviation market.
