The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has introduced a substantial hike in cargo handling charges nationwide, with certain fees surging up to 100 times—the most significant revision in the past five years. This adjustment, effective from July 1, aims to bring tariffs in line with rising operational costs at airports.
As per an official notification issued early Wednesday, the new rate structure was approved by the PAA executive committee and marks the first comprehensive update since the last revision half a decade ago.
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Under the revised rates, the cost of transporting pet birds has increased by 50%, rising from Rs200 to Rs300 per kilogram. Similarly, the fee for shipping betel leaves has doubled, now set at Rs70 per kilogram.
General cargo charges have also been raised by 25%, going from Rs100 to Rs125 per kilogram. The new structure further includes updated fees for transporting other pet animals such as cats and dogs, along with a broader category of items classified under general cargo.
PAA officials have justified the tariff hike by pointing to the prolonged freeze on rates despite consistent growth in airport operational expenses.
The PAA, established as an autonomous body in August 2024 under Section 3 of the Pakistan Airports Authority Act, is tasked with overseeing, developing, and managing airport and air transport services across the country.
