Pakistan to Install E-Gates at Major Airports, Restores Gulf Flight Operations Amid Delays

The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has announced plans to install electronic immigration gates (e-gates) at the country’s three busiest airports—Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore—to streamline passenger processing and enhance border security.

The e-gates, which will be set up at international arrival and departure terminals, are expected to significantly reduce wait times for international travelers by automating immigration through biometric verification.

A spokesperson for the PAA said the design phase of the e-gates project has been completed following a series of workshops with stakeholders. German-based M2P Consulting will now develop the technical specifications and launch the tender process to invite bids from global e-gate providers.

“This initiative aims to introduce biometric-based automated border control at major airports to enhance passenger facilitation, minimize delays, and boost security,” the PAA spokesperson said. “It reflects our commitment to integrating smart technologies for a seamless and secure travel experience.”

In a separate development, flight operations between Pakistan and the Gulf countries have resumed after the reopening of airspace over Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) had temporarily suspended flights due to escalating tensions in the region, causing widespread delays and cancellations.

Despite the partial restoration of services, severe delays continue to impact travelers. As of Wednesday, at least 32 flights—including 14 operated by Qatar Airways—have been cancelled from major Pakistani airports. Additionally, 55 other flights faced delays across Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

Some flights were rerouted to alternate airports during the disruption. Among the delayed flights were PIA’s PK 747 from Lahore to Madinah, which was held up for 13 hours, and PK 247 from Lahore to Dammam, delayed by 6.5 hours. PIA’s PK 233 from Islamabad to Dubai was delayed by 15 hours, while Qatar Airways’ QR 621 from Doha to Karachi and Lahore faced a 10-hour delay.

Officials have warned that travelers should continue to expect disruptions as airlines work to clear backlogs and stabilize schedules.