Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has reviewed major aviation development projects in the province, including plans for a new Greenfield Airport in Sukkur with the capacity to handle up to 1.6 million passengers annually.
The review took place during a meeting with a delegation from the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), led by its Director General Air Vice Marshal Zeeshan Saeed.
The proposed Sukkur Greenfield Airport was among the key projects discussed during the meeting. The development is expected to expand aviation infrastructure in the region and provide additional capacity to meet future passenger demand.
A Greenfield airport generally refers to a new airport developed on a previously undeveloped site, allowing authorities to design facilities around modern operational and passenger requirements.
The proposed facility in Sukkur could strengthen air connectivity for the city and surrounding areas. With a planned annual handling capacity of 1.6 million passengers, the project represents a significant aviation infrastructure development for upper Sindh.
The meeting also covered the modernization of Jinnah International Airport in Karachi. As one of the country’s major airports, improvements at the facility could focus on upgrading infrastructure and supporting efficient passenger and aviation operations.
Another project reviewed during the meeting was the proposed upgradation of Hyderabad Airport. Improving the airport’s facilities could contribute to better connectivity for Hyderabad and nearby communities while supporting the broader aviation network in Sindh.
The development of the Civil Aviation Training Institute (CATI) in Hyderabad into an aviation university was also discussed. The proposed transformation could expand opportunities for specialized education and training in aviation-related fields.
The range of projects discussed during the meeting reflects a broader focus on strengthening aviation infrastructure and human-resource development in Sindh.
The proposed Sukkur airport is particularly significant because its projected capacity of 1.6 million passengers annually would provide additional room for passenger growth. The project could also support wider economic and commercial activity by improving access to air transportation.
Meanwhile, modernization efforts at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport and the proposed upgrade of Hyderabad Airport would address infrastructure needs at existing aviation facilities.
Turning CATI Hyderabad into an aviation university would add an educational component to the province’s aviation development plans. Such an institution could potentially provide specialized academic and professional training for students and aviation-sector personnel.
The projects remain subject to the relevant planning, development and implementation processes. Further details regarding timelines, construction plans, investment requirements and operational arrangements would be needed as the projects progress.
The review by the Sindh government and Pakistan Airports Authority highlights the province’s focus on developing its aviation infrastructure. The proposed Greenfield Airport in Sukkur, along with airport modernization and aviation education initiatives, could form part of Sindh’s longer-term plans for the sector.
