Lahore airport’s new terminal to welcome 12 million passengers annually
Expansion designed to manage growing traffic with upgraded baggage handling and security systems
Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport is set for a major transformation, with the addition of a new terminal designed to streamline operations and cater to a growing influx of passengers.
Expected to be completed by September 2026, the expansion will significantly improve both the capacity and efficiency of the airport, ensuring it meets the needs of a rapidly increasing number of travelers.
A key feature of the new terminal will be the dramatic increase in airport processing capacities.
Enhanced passenger facilities
Immigration counters will soar from 10 departure counters to 64, while arrival counters will grow from 18 to 80. The increase in these counters is expected to greatly reduce congestion, leading to quicker and more seamless entry and exit for passengers.
In addition, the number of security checks will double from four to eight, ensuring that safety measures are maintained without slowing down traffic.
Expanding baggage handling
The baggage handling capacity of Allama Iqbal International will also see a massive boost. With the number of baggage conveyor belts increasing from just two to six, delays in retrieving luggage will be significantly reduced. This expansion is expected to reduce frustration for passengers, offering a smoother overall experience.
The new terminal will also feature six passenger boarding bridges, up from four, allowing for more efficient boarding processes.
The expansion project is designed with a long-term view, accommodating the growing demand for air travel in Lahore. Currently, the airport handles 5 to 5.5 million passengers annually, but with the expected rise in international travel, particularly to Europe and the UK, the new terminal will be equipped to handle over 12 million passengers each year.
Lahore airport expansion
The Allama Iqbal International Airport’s expansion is designed not only to address current issues but to prepare the airport for the next 15 to 20 years of growth. The new terminal will cater to both domestic and international passengers, with special attention to the increased demand from Hajj and Umrah travelers.
By expanding check-in counters from 25 to 67 and doubling customs inspection points from 12 to 24, the project promises to enhance the overall flow of passengers, making travel more efficient and stress-free.
With construction progressing around the clock, the new terminal is expected to open in 2026, heralding a new era for Lahore’s air travel industry.