ISLAMABAD: Islamabad International Airport has officially become Pakistan’s first airport to operate entirely on a cashless payment system, representing a significant advancement in digital infrastructure and passenger experience.
As part of this initiative, all transactions within the airport including airline ticket purchases, parking fees, dining services, retail outlets, and duty-free shops — will now be processed exclusively through digital payment methods.
Travelers can utilize digital wallets, scan QR codes, or use mobile banking, along with debit and credit cards, to complete their payments. Airport officials state that this transition aims to boost transparency, streamline processes, and provide greater convenience for travelers.This move comes shortly after the federal government announced that Islamabad International Airport would be included in its ongoing privatization plans, last month.
Aftab Gilani, the Airport’s Chief Operating Officer and Manager, highlighted the launch of a cutting-edge mobile app designed to enable passengers to monitor and locate lost luggage from anywhere globally.He emphasized that implementing a digital payment system alongside baggage tracking will not only improve the travel experience but will also elevate the airport’s reputation and international competitiveness.
Senior Joint Director of Commercial Services, Malik Amjad, described this development as a crucial step forward in modernizing airport services.
Earlier this year, the government confirmed that Islamabad Airport was part of the privatization agenda, which also includes Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport and Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport, as part of the broader privatization strategy outlined by the Ministry of Privatisation.
