ISLAMABAD, May 14 (Alliance News): Parliamentary Secretary for Aviation Zeb Jaffar informed the National Assembly on Wednesday that Sukkur Airport is being upgraded to international standards, with work on runway improvements already underway.
Responding to questions during the National Assembly’s question hour, she said the government is committed to transforming Sukkur into a fully functional international airport to enhance regional connectivity.
She emphasized that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), as a state-owned entity, must operate based on international market conditions, keeping in view foreign exchange rates and operational expenses to maintain sustainability.
Addressing concerns raised by MNA Haji Jamal Kakakhel regarding high airfare from Quetta, Jaffar assured that the matter would be examined.
In response to another question by MNA Alia Kamran, she acknowledged that airfares typically increase during Eid and other festive periods due to a surge in travel demand across all sectors.
She highlighted that PIA has returned to profitability, earning over Rs 26 billion recently, and efforts are ongoing to improve performance further.
In areas where PIA does not operate, private airlines have been granted licenses to ensure accessibility, she added while responding to a query from MNA Zartaj Gul.
Clarifying a misconception, Jaffar stated that PIA does not provide free travel services except for concessional fares to the families of its employees.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upgrading Sukkur Airport and enhancing national aviation infrastructure. Currently, the PIA fleet consists of 19 aircraft, including six Boeing 777s, eleven Airbus A320s, and the rest ATRs.
