New Sukkur Greenfield Airport Planned to Handle 1.6 Million Passengers Annually
KARACHI: The Sindh government has assured support for a proposed new Greenfield Airport in Sukkur as part of a wider plan to improve aviation infrastructure across the province.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah reviewed the project with a delegation from the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), led by Director General Air Vice Marshal Zeeshan Saeed.
Sukkur Airport Project
According to the PAA briefing, the proposed Greenfield Airport is being planned as a regional gateway for Upper Sindh and surrounding areas. The facility is expected to have the capacity to handle up to 1.6 million passengers annually and accommodate larger aircraft.
The airport is also being considered as an alternative facility for flights diverted from Karachi when required.
The feasibility assessment identified limitations at the existing Sukkur Airport, including restrictions related to airspace, available land and future expansion.
The proposed project would require approximately 3,000 acres of land. The PAA has requested assistance from the Sindh government for land acquisition, road connectivity and other provincial matters. Officials have also discussed the possibility of developing the project through a public-private partnership.
Hyderabad Airport Upgrade
The meeting also reviewed plans to upgrade Hyderabad Airport. Under the proposal, its existing 7,000-foot runway would be extended to 11,500 feet.
The upgrade is aimed at improving regional connectivity and providing another option for aircraft that may need to divert from Karachi.
The PAA also highlighted other infrastructure improvements that could strengthen Hyderabad’s role as a regional aviation facility.
Karachi Airport Expansion
The meeting included discussions on the ongoing improvement and expansion of Jinnah International Airport Karachi.
Plans include upgrades to passenger facilities and other airport infrastructure, with different options being considered for expanding terminal capacity and boarding facilities.
The provincial government has directed relevant departments to coordinate with the PAA on land, road connectivity and other issues related to the aviation projects.
The proposed developments are part of broader efforts to improve air connectivity, passenger facilities and aviation infrastructure across Sindh.
