Pakistan is home to a growing aviation network that plays an important role in connecting cities, supporting tourism, business travel, and international mobility. Pakistan total airports include international, domestic, and military-operated airfields. These airports not only facilitate air transportation but also contribute to trade, cargo movement, and diplomatic relations.
Understanding how many airports exist and their roles helps in knowing Pakistan’s connectivity and development in the aviation sector.
How Many Airports Are in Pakistan?
Currently, Pakistan has around 151 airports, airfields, and airstrips. However, not all of them are used for commercial passenger flights. Many are small airstrips or military bases. Out of these, around 35 to 40 airports are functional for civilian travel, and nearly 15+ of them handle international flights.
Major International Airports in Pakistan
International airports play a major role by connecting Pakistan with other global destinations.
Some of the key international airports are:
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Jinnah International Airport, Karachi – The busiest and largest, serving as a major travel and cargo hub.
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Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore – Handles a high number of passengers and international airlines.
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Islamabad International Airport – A modern facility serving the capital region with advanced flight operations.
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Bacha Khan International Airport, Peshawar – Important for passengers traveling to Gulf countries.
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Quetta International Airport – Serves Balochistan and supports regional connectivity.
These airports support millions of passengers annually and are linked with multiple international airlines.
Domestic Airports in Pakistan
Domestic airports help connect smaller cities and remote regions with major urban centers.
Some notable domestic airports include:
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Multan International Airport (also handles international flights)
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Faisalabad International Airport (also upgraded for foreign travel)
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Skardu International Airport
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Gilgit Airport
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Gwadar International Airport (expanding to serve international flights regularly)
These airports are important for tourism, especially in northern areas like Gilgit, Skardu, and Chitral, where air travel avoids long mountain road routes.
Military and Strategic Airbases
Apart from civilian airports, Pakistan has several military airbases controlled by the Pakistan Air Force. These ensure air defense and strategic preparedness. Some military bases are dual-purpose, allowing both civilian and defense flights when needed.
New Airport Development in Pakistan
Pakistan is continuously upgrading its airport infrastructure. Modernization includes:
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New runways and terminals
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Improved air traffic control systems
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Expansion of Skardu and Gwadar airports to support large aircraft
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Smart airport facilities with improved passenger services
These improvements help increase tourism and international transit.
Importance of Airports for Pakistan
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Boost International Trade
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Support Tourism and Local Travel
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Strengthen Business and Employment Opportunities
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Enhance Global Connectivity
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Promote Regional Development
Airports are significant for Pakistan’s economy and international relations.
FAQs
Q1: What is the total number of airports in Pakistan?
Pakistan has around 151 airports, airfields, and airstrips, but only 35-40 are actively used for commercial flights.
Q2: How many international airports does Pakistan have?
Pakistan has around 15+ international airports, with major hubs in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
Q3: Which is the busiest airport in Pakistan?
Jinnah International Airport Karachi is the busiest and largest in terms of passenger traffic.
Q4: Which airports are important for tourism in northern Pakistan?
Skardu, Gilgit, and Chitral airports are key for travelers visiting the northern mountain regions.
