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New air traffic control tower to be built at Jinnah International Airport

Project aims to strengthen air traffic management, enhance operational safety

November 28, 2025
The image shows front view of Jinnah International Airport in Karachi. — Karachi Airport website/ File
The image shows front view of Jinnah International Airport in Karachi. — Karachi Airport website/ File

KARACHI: The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has initiated construction of a modern air traffic control tower and upgraded rescue and firefighting station as part of a major infrastructure overhaul at Jinnah International Airport.

The project aims to strengthen air traffic management, enhance operational safety, and improve emergency response capabilities at the country’s busiest airport, stated a statement issued by the authority.

According to officials, the design phase will be completed within six months, followed by a 24-month construction period.

The facilities are being designed and constructed in a joint venture with Spain-based CEMOSA and Fairbanks Architects, bringing international expertise in airport planning and Communication, Navigation and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) systems.

A four-day inception workshop held at Jinnah International Airport brought together international aviation specialists, the press release said, adding that the team met local aviation professionals to refine project requirements and review technical parameters.

After evaluating three proposed locations, PAA has finalised sites for both the ATC Tower and the RFFS, ensuring compliance with operational needs, safety standards, and long-term airport expansion plans.

"The initiative marks a significant step in PAA’s efforts to upgrade critical aviation infrastructure in line with global standards and best practices," it concluded.