Parking fees at Islamabad International Airport have recently been revised upward, drawing criticism from passengers and visitors who frequent the facility.
According to the newly implemented rates, the charges for the first three hours have been increased from Rs 90 to Rs 120. For those who stay beyond this period, the per-hour rate has also been raised significantly, rising from Rs 50 to Rs 70 for each additional hour.
This revision marks a noticeable increase in costs for travelers and their families, especially those who spend extended periods at the airport while waiting to pick up or drop off passengers.
The revised fee structure has not gone unnoticed by commuters. Frequent disputes have reportedly erupted between passengers, their families, and parking contractors. Many travelers argue that the hike in charges is unfair and places an additional burden on people who are already dealing with the rising cost of travel and everyday expenses.
Families accompanying passengers say that a simple task, such as receiving relatives arriving on late-night flights, has now become more costly.
In addition to the financial burden, complaints have also been raised about illegal parking practices in and around the airport premises. Visitors allege that some individuals try to bypass the official parking area to avoid paying the higher rates, causing traffic congestion and difficulties for law-abiding commuters.
The issue has become a point of frustration for both passengers and airport staff, with calls for stricter regulation of parking enforcement.
Efforts are underway to seek an official response from the Pakistan Airports Authority regarding the decision. Saifullah Khan, spokesperson for the authority, is expected to provide clarity on the rationale behind the fee hike and whether any measures will be introduced to address public concerns. Until then, the revised parking charges remain in effect, continuing to stir debate among travelers and their families.
