Islamabad International Airport Becomes Pakistan’s First Fully Cashless Airport, Launches Digital Services

Islamabad International Airport has officially become Pakistan’s first fully cashless airport, marking a significant step toward digital transformation and enhanced passenger convenience.

Under the new system, all payments at the airport — including airline ticketing, car parking, food outlets, retail shops, and duty-free stores — will now be processed through digital platforms.

Passengers can make payments using digital wallets, QR codes, mobile banking, as well as debit and credit cards. Airport authorities emphasized that the move is intended to improve transparency, efficiency, and overall ease for travellers.

The shift to a cashless system follows the federal government’s decision last month to include Islamabad International Airport in its active privatisation programme.

Chief Operating Officer and Airport Manager Aftab Gilani said a modern mobile application has also been launched to allow passengers to track lost luggage from anywhere in the world. He added that the digital payment system and baggage tracking facility will not only enhance passenger convenience but also improve the airport’s international standing and service ratings.

Senior Joint Director Commercial Malik Amjad called the initiative a “significant milestone in modernising airport services.”

Earlier this year, in January, the federal government confirmed that Islamabad International Airport had been added to its active privatisation programme. According to the Ministry of Privatisation, the move aligns with ongoing plans to privatize Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport and Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport.