LAHORE - Advisor to Prime Minister on Aviation Sardar Mahtab Ahmad Khan has showed dissatisfaction over the quality and pace of expansion work at Faisalabad international airport. Khan strictly directed authorities concerned to complete the project within stipulated time and warned that no delay will be tolerated in this regard.

He expressed these views during his surprise visit to Faisalabad airport for inspection of expansion and renovation work there on Tuesday. Member National Assembly Mian Mannan, CAA Director General Air Marshal (r) Asim Suleman and other officials were also present on this occasion. Advisor to Prime Minister emphasized to speed up the work at Faisalabad airport by making it alike international standards. Mahtab added that the expansion of Faisalabad international airport is divided in two parts; 1.3 billion rupees are allocated for first phase, which would be completed in the month of January, 2018, whereas we are focusing to install latest navigation system in 2nd phase of this project.

While talking to the media, he said, “Faisalabad is third-most-populous city in Pakistan, and the second-largest in the eastern province of Punjab. It is hub of industrial and commercial activities. Incumbent government is always striving hard to design solid strategies to promote commercial and economic activities of this city.” He said that currently renovation and expansion of five different national airports is in process which will not only be beneficial in short term but also will be favorable in long term. He further added that in order to modernize and upgrade the Faisalabad International Airport as per international standards, induction of latest and modern technology is being ensured to maximize the efficiency and productivity of this Airport. Its newly constructed and renovated lounge will serve the sitting capacity of 600 passengers at the same time, while expanded airport apron will allow 3 big planes to land and load simultaneously.

He further directed to establish the new cargo shipment system at the airport to improve the cargo facilities.

He shared with media that two bridges are also being constructed for viable movements of passengers across the airport. Advisor directed the officials to install latest landing lights to cope with smog and fog and to ensure smooth schedule of all flights. He also directed the officials to start daily flights from Faisalabad to Jaddah.

Advisor to Prime Minister also visited the office of PIA at Faisalabad Airport and instructed to construct a new cutting edge office of PIA and asked to present one feasibility report in this regard. He further instructed all the officials to facilitate the passengers and to pay attention to cleanliness and level of other facilities.