Mohsin Naqvi Oversees Sialkot Airport, Urges Swift Immigration Processing

Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control, Mohsin Naqvi, paid a visit to Sialkot International Airport on Sunday to inspect various sections of the facility. Accompanied by Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, Naqvi met with officials from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF). The ministers received briefings on the airport’s checking procedures, daily flight operations, and passenger grievances.

During the visit, Naqvi instructed officers to enhance the passenger experience and expedite immigration clearance for outbound travelers. This initiative follows Naqvi’s recent visit to Allama Iqbal International Airport, where he directed the expansion of immigration counters for faster processing.

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Pakistan is currently undertaking efforts to modernize its immigration system and introduce technology to facilitate passengers. Plans include the installation of e-gates at various airports nationwide to streamline immigration clearance without delays.

These developments coincide with the government’s decision to outsource management of three major airports: Jinnah International Airport Karachi, Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore, and Islamabad International Airport. Islamabad International Airport is slated for outsourcing over a 15-year period, with final modalities currently under consideration.

However, it was clarified that navigational services and runway operations would remain under the purview of the Civil Aviation Authority. Additionally, the government has announced plans to privatize the financially struggling Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), with the process expected to conclude by June of this year.