Zindigi and Pakistan Airports Authority Lead Digital Transformation
Islamabad International Airport has officially become Pakistan’s first fully digital and cashless greenfield airport. This landmark transformation has been made possible through a strategic collaboration between Zindigi, powered by JS Bank, and the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA). With the deployment of Zindigi Raast QR across the airport, all payment activities have shifted to secure digital channels. This move represents a major leap forward in Pakistan’s journey toward a modern, cashless economy.
The initiative positions Islamabad International Airport as a national leader in smart infrastructure. It demonstrates how technology can enhance public services while improving operational efficiency. The airport now serves as a practical example of how digital payments can be successfully integrated into large-scale public facilities.
Smart Airport Initiative Improves Passenger Experience
Under the Smart Airport Initiative, the entire airport ecosystem has been digitized. Passengers can now make payments at all outlets using interoperable Zindigi Raast QR codes. These QR codes work seamlessly with any mobile banking application. This allows travelers to pay digitally without relying on cash or physical cards.
The shift to cashless payments offers multiple benefits. Transactions are faster and more convenient for passengers. Long queues and cash-handling delays are reduced. At the same time, digital payments bring greater transparency and accountability for airport authorities. Revenue leakages are minimized, and financial tracking becomes more accurate and efficient.
This initiative also supports financial inclusion by encouraging the use of digital banking tools. It creates a safer, cleaner, and more efficient airport environment for travelers and businesses alike.
Supporting the Vision of Cashless Islamabad and Digital Pakistan
The complete digitization of Islamabad International Airport aligns closely with the Prime Minister’s vision of Cashless Islamabad and Digital Pakistan. The goal is to modernize critical public infrastructure through citizen-focused technology. By adopting digital payments at a national gateway, Pakistan sends a strong message about its commitment to innovation and economic modernization.
Commenting on the development, Noman Azhar, Co-Founder of Zindigi, stated that once fully implemented, the airport will serve as a national model for smart public infrastructure. He emphasized that reducing cash dependency will significantly enhance the passenger journey while strengthening financial transparency.
Strong Collaboration Behind the Milestone
This milestone was achieved through the dedicated efforts of multiple stakeholders. Key contributors from the Pakistan Airports Authority included Deputy Director General Sadiq ur Rehman Khan and Director Commissioner and Estate Rabia Salma. Airport Manager Syed Aftab Gillani played a crucial role in operational execution, while Senior Joint Director Commercial Amjad Mukhtar Malik supported commercial integration.
From Zindigi, Mohsin Khan, Head of Merchant Channels and Retail, led the digital payment rollout across airport outlets. Their collective collaboration brought Islamabad International Airport’s full digital and cashless transformation to life.
The project further reinforces Zindigi’s role as a national digital transformation partner. By working closely with federal and city authorities, Zindigi continues to modernize Pakistan’s economic and civic infrastructure.
