Dozens of planes at Jinnah International Airport have been left idle for several years, gradually deteriorating, sources said.
The abandoned aircraft, including both passenger and cargo planes, have become nesting sites for birds. The airport authority is exploring options to manage the growing issue.
Of the planes in the airport’s junkyard, 20 belong to a private airline, while seven are PIA aircraft. Foreign cargo and passenger planes have also remained unused for years.
Sources said the private airline’s planes have not been removed due to ongoing legal issues. The airport authority is considering several measures to either remove or repurpose these planes.
Officials warned that long-term storage of idle planes can create safety hazards and environmental challenges. The accumulation of unused aircraft also occupies valuable space needed for active operations.
Authorities are evaluating multiple solutions, including scrapping the planes, selling them, or converting them for training and technical purposes. Legal teams are being consulted to resolve ownership and clearance issues for the private airline’s aircraft.
The situation highlights the broader challenge of managing inactive planes at major airports in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for structured policies for abandoned aircraft. Airport authorities said a plan will soon be finalized to address the problem.
Experts noted that timely removal or repurposing of idle planes can help improve airport efficiency and reduce safety risks. The initiative may also create opportunities for technical training, spare parts recovery, and investment in airport infrastructure.
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The airport authority is expected to announce a concrete plan for managing the idle planes in the coming months. Passengers and aviation stakeholders are advised to monitor updates as authorities work to clear the junkyard and optimize airport operations.
