Karachi’s Jinnah Airport unveils A380-ready runway after Rs8.3bn upgrade
18-month project delivered without overruns or accidents
KARACHI – A major leap in Pakistan’s aviation infrastructure unfolded at Jinnah International Airport as the newly reconstructed Runway 07L/25R was formally inaugurated and received its first international flight today.
The aircraft, arriving from Saudi Arabia, touched down at 12:20pm after departing at 6:48am and was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute. The landing marked the operational debut of the upgraded Code 4F runway, now fully capable of handling Airbus A380 aircraft.
The Rs8.3 billion project, completed in 18 months, was delivered with zero delays, zero cost overruns, zero claims and zero accidents. Throughout the construction phase, domestic and international flight operations continued uninterrupted.
Formal inauguration
The inauguration ceremony was led by Secretary Defence Lt Gen (R) Muhammad Ali, who formally opened the reconstructed runway earlier this week. Additional Secretary Defence Maj Gen Qaiser Suleiman attended the event alongside senior aviation officials.
Director General Pakistan Airports Authority AVM Zeeshan Saeed, Director General Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority Nadir Shafi Dar, engineers and project teams were also present. The Secretary Defence commended the Pakistan Airports Authority for delivering world-class infrastructure in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization standards.
Souvenirs were presented to the Secretary and Additional Secretary Defence, while special honorary shields were awarded to the DG PAA, Deputy DG Works and Development, Project Director and Director Planning and Development in recognition of their services. The ceremony concluded with a cake-cutting to mark the completion of the project.
4F upgrade
According to PAA CEO and Airport Manager Adnan Khan, the runway has been upgraded to Category 4F standards, the highest international classification for large aircraft. With this elevation, Runway 07L/25R is now fully equipped to handle wide-body passenger jets and large cargo aircraft, including the Airbus A380.
The first successful calibration landing on the new surface was conducted on 3 January 2026, confirming operational readiness ahead of the official inauguration.
Project Director Hafiz Zahid Ishaq stated that the runway reconstruction incorporated reinforced pavement materials designed to withstand heavier aircraft loads. Taxiways have been improved, and advanced lighting systems installed to provide enhanced approach guidance and visibility.
Long-term capacity
A Category 1 navigation system has also been introduced to support operations during adverse weather conditions, with scope for further technological upgrades if required. Officials indicated that the enhancements are expected to ensure operational safety and efficiency for the next 25 to 30 years.
The expanded runway significantly increases the airport’s capacity to accommodate growing passenger volumes and cargo traffic, strengthening Karachi’s position as a key regional aviation hub.