Airport Cargo Charges Increased by Up to 100% Nationwide

The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has officially increased cargo handling charges across all airports in the country, marking the first major revision in five years. The new tariff structure took effect on July 1, 2025, following approval from the PAA’s executive committee.

According to the official notification issued Wednesday, the updated fees are designed to match rising operational costs for airport services nationwide. Some charges have seen significant hikes—up to 100 times—depending on the cargo type.

Key Tariff Changes:

• Pet birds: Fee increased by 50%, from Rs200 to Rs300 per kg

• Betel leaves: Charges doubled, now Rs70 per kg

• General cargo: Increased by 25%, from Rs100 to Rs125 per kg

• Pets like cats and dogs: Newly adjusted rates based on weight and classification

PAA officials say the revision was overdue, especially after years of inflation and growing airport operating expenses. “Tariffs have remained unchanged for half a decade, while costs have consistently risen,” one official explained.

The PAA was established as an autonomous body in August 2024 under the Pakistan Airports Authority Act, tasked with overseeing and modernizing airport and air transport services.

The authority emphasized that the new rates are crucial for maintaining service quality and sustaining infrastructure improvements at Pakistan’s busy airports.