Karachi’s main airport has upgraded its primary runway, allowing it to handle the world’s largest commercial passenger aircraft, the mighty A380 airbus officials say.
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) said the reconstructed Runway 07L/25R at Jinnah International Airport has been classified as Code 4F after meeting international safety standards.
This means the runway can now accommodate larger aircraft, including the double-decker Airbus A380.
First landing on upgraded runway
On Thursday, the PAA said the first operational landing had taken place on the newly upgraded strip.
The aircraft was welcomed with a traditional water salute, a ceremony often used to mark important aviation milestones.
Officials said the project was completed within the 18-month deadline set by the authority.
The runway meets the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Annexe 14 standards, which govern airport design and operations.
What Code 4F means
Code 4F is the highest runway classification under international guidelines. It allows airports to handle the largest category of aircraft currently in commercial service.
With this certification, Karachi can now receive Airbus A380 flights. Airlines operating long-haul routes often use such aircraft on high-demand sectors.
Aviation officials say the upgrade improves safety margins and operational efficiency. It also gives airlines more flexibility when planning routes to and from Pakistan’s largest city.
Capacity, future growth
Jinnah International Airport is Pakistan’s busiest aviation hub. It has a designed annual passenger capacity of about 12 million travellers.
In 2025, it handled around 8.5 million passengers, according to recent operational figures.
The airport operates two runways and a modern terminal complex.
It can manage roughly 15 flight movements per hour and has multiple air bridges and parking bays for wide-body aircraft.
Authorities say the upgraded runway is expected to support future growth in both passenger and cargo traffic.
They add that the ability to handle larger aircraft may encourage more international carriers to consider Karachi for long-haul services.
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