Pakistan is preparing to strengthen its aviation industry with the development of three major aviation facilities at Islamabad International Airport. The new projects aim to enhance aircraft maintenance, improve pilot training, and expand the country’s engineering capabilities.
The planned facilities include Pakistan’s first European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)-approved Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) centre, a modern aircraft maintenance hangar, and a state-of-the-art flight training centre.
Together, these initiatives are expected to reduce dependence on foreign aviation services while creating new opportunities for skilled professionals.
Pakistan to Establish Its First EASA-Approved MRO Facility
One of the most significant projects is the establishment of Pakistan’s first EASA-approved Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Islamabad International Airport.
The facility will be developed by private aviation services company NORTEK. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Airports Authority will provide administrative support, while the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority will oversee regulatory compliance.
Once it receives EASA approval, the MRO centre will offer base maintenance and component support for Airbus A318, A319, A320, and A321 aircraft.
Moreover, the project is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s aircraft engineering sector while generating skilled employment opportunities for aviation professionals.
New Aircraft Maintenance Hangar Under Development
In addition to the MRO facility, Airblue is constructing an EASA-standard aircraft maintenance hangar at Islamabad International Airport.
The new hangar will provide all-weather protection for aircraft, maintenance equipment, and engineering personnel. Consequently, the airline will be able to carry out maintenance operations more efficiently throughout the year.
Furthermore, the facility may also provide maintenance services to other domestic airlines operating Airbus A320-family aircraft. As a result, airlines could reduce their reliance on expensive overseas maintenance services.
Modern Flight Training Centre Planned
Airblue is also developing a Flight Training Centre equipped with a full-flight simulator and modern classrooms.
The facility will support type-rating and recurrent pilot training, helping pilots maintain international training standards.
According to current plans, the training centre is expected to be completed by April 2027.
Once operational, it will help address Pakistan’s shortage of trained pilots while significantly reducing the need for airlines to send flight crews abroad for specialised training.
Projects Aim to Strengthen Pakistan’s Aviation Industry
The three aviation projects represent an important investment in Pakistan’s aviation infrastructure.
Besides improving maintenance capabilities, the facilities are expected to enhance technical expertise, support workforce development, and strengthen the country’s aviation engineering sector.
Additionally, local maintenance and pilot training services could lower operational costs for airlines while improving efficiency across the industry.
As these projects move forward, Islamabad International Airport is set to become an increasingly important hub for aircraft maintenance, engineering, and aviation training in Pakistan.
