Aviation and Railways Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique on Saturday clarified that the government has only decided to outsource the national airports, it has nothing to do with privatisation.
He rejected the rumors and propaganda of the opposition that the federal government is resorting to privatisation.
He said that it has been decided to outsource only the management of the three airports, which will bring in foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country.
He cited examples of airports in India, Saudi Arabia and the United States to justify his argument.
PIA’s Europe, UK routes
The government is trying to revive international routes of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).
He said that PIA’s share is now being taken by other airlines but when PIA’s European routes resume, ticket fares will come down due to competition.
He also highlighted plans to upgrade A320 and Boeing 777 aircraft, adding that PIA has decided to install comfortable seats for passengers by March.
Saad Rafiq said that the national carrier is also discussing various proposals with Emirates (airline).
Damage to Railway
He said that Pakistan Railways earned 28.30 billion rupees between July and December 2022, while its expenses were recorded at 53 billion rupees, including 20 billion rupees for pension and 13 billion rupees as operational expenses.
He said that due to the recent floods, the railway suffered a loss of 7 billion rupees.
