Overview of Allama Iqbal International Airport
Allama Iqbal International Airport, also known as Lahore Airport, is the third-busiest airport in Pakistan. It is located in Lahore, the capital city of the Punjab province. The airport is named after Allama Muhammad Iqbal, a renowned philosopher, poet, and politician who played a significant role in the creation of Pakistan.
The airport was initially built in 1962, and since then, it has undergone numerous renovations and expansions to cater to the growing number of passengers. The latest expansion project was completed in 2018, which increased the capacity of the airport to handle up to 20 million passengers per year. The airport covers an area of approximately 3,200 acres and comprises two runways, two terminals, and various other facilities.
The airport serves as a hub for several airlines, including Pakistan International Airlines, Airblue, and Serene Air. It offers both domestic and international flights to various destinations worldwide, including the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. In 2019, the airport served over 7 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports in Pakistan.
Allama Iqbal International Airport provides various facilities and amenities to ensure the comfort and convenience of its passengers. These include duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, prayer areas, lounges, and free Wi-Fi. The airport also provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities or special needs.
Overall, Allama Iqbal International Airport is a vital gateway to Lahore and the rest of Pakistan. Its modern facilities, excellent services, and strategic location make it a popular choice for travelers visiting the region.
Terminals at Allama Iqbal International Airport
Allama Iqbal International Airport, located in Lahore, Pakistan, has two terminals – the Hajj Terminal and the Allama Iqbal Terminal.
The Hajj Terminal is exclusively used for Hajj operations during the Hajj season. It has a capacity of handling up to 10,000 passengers at a time and is equipped with all modern facilities such as prayer areas, medical centers, baggage handling systems, and immigration counters.
The Allama Iqbal Terminal is the main terminal of the airport and is used for both domestic and international flights. It has a capacity of handling up to 6 million passengers annually and is equipped with all necessary facilities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, prayer areas, and VIP areas.
The terminal has a ground floor, where passengers can check-in and drop off their luggage, and an upper floor, where the boarding gates and security checks are located.
There are around 25 airlines operating from the Allama Iqbal Terminal, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Pakistan International Airlines.
In recent years, the terminal has undergone significant renovations and upgrades, making it more modern and efficient. The airport authority has installed new baggage handling systems, renovated the washrooms, and upgraded the security systems.
The airport has also introduced a state-of-the-art biometric system for immigration and security checks, reducing waiting times and enhancing passenger convenience.
Overall, the terminals at Allama Iqbal International Airport provide a comfortable and convenient experience for passengers traveling to and from Lahore. With its modern facilities and efficient services, the airport is gradually becoming one of the major aviation hubs in the region.
Airlines and Destinations
The Allama Iqbal International Airport is served by numerous domestic and international airlines. Domestic airlines such as Pakistan International Airlines, Airblue, and Serene Air operate flights to major cities within Pakistan including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Quetta, and Peshawar.
International airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Etihad Airways provide connections from Lahore to destinations around the world including Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, Abu Dhabi, Manchester, and Toronto. Seasonal changes are common on many routes, with airlines adjusting their schedules to reflect changes in demand and travel patterns.
Other airlines that operate from Allama Iqbal International Airport include Saudi Arabian Airlines, Gulf Air, Oman Air, and Shaheen Air. Whether you’re traveling within Pakistan or heading abroad, there are plenty of airline options to choose from at this airport.
Transportation Options at Allama Iqbal International Airport
Allama Iqbal International Airport is the largest airport in Pakistan and serves as the main gateway to the city of Lahore. It is located approximately 18 kilometers from the city center and offers a variety of transportation options to get to and from the airport.
One of the most popular transportation options at Allama Iqbal International Airport is the shuttle service. Many hotels in the area offer airport shuttle services for their guests, so it’s worth checking with your hotel to see if they offer this service. Additionally, several private companies also offer shuttle services to and from the airport, which can be booked online or in person at the airport.
Another convenient way to get to and from the airport is by car rental. Several international car rental companies have desks at the airport and offer a wide range of vehicles to choose from. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace and can be a great option if you’re planning to travel outside of Lahore during your stay.
If you’re looking for an affordable transportation option, the airport shuttle bus is a great choice. The shuttle bus operates between the airport and several major locations in Lahore, including the GPO Chowk, Kalma Chowk, and the Railway Station. The bus runs every 45 minutes and is a cost-effective way to get around the city.
For those who prefer to use public transportation, there are several train lines that connect the airport to various locations in Lahore. The nearest train station to the airport is Lahore Cantt, which is approximately 5 kilometers away. From there, you can take a local train or hire a taxi to get to your final destination.
Overall, there are plenty of transportation options available at Allama Iqbal International Airport to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Whether you prefer to rent a car, take a shuttle, or use public transportation, getting to and from the airport is easy and convenient. Just be sure to plan ahead and book your transportation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Parking Options at Allama Iqbal International Airport
Allama Iqbal International Airport offers several parking options for travelers. The airport has three different types of parking: hourly parking, daily parking, and long-term parking.
Hourly parking is ideal if you need to park for only a few hours. The rate for hourly parking is Rs. 100 per hour. If you need to park for longer than a few hours, daily parking is a better choice. The daily parking rate is Rs. 500 per day.
For those who need to park for an extended period, long-term parking is the most cost-effective option. The long-term parking lot is located near the airport’s Terminal 3. The rate for long-term parking is Rs. 1,500 for the first three days and Rs. 500 per day thereafter.
All parking lots are monitored by cameras and security personnel, providing peace of mind for passengers. Additionally, there is a shuttle service available that provides transportation from the parking lots to the airport terminal.
Overall, Allama Iqbal International Airport offers a variety of parking options, making it easy for travelers to find the perfect spot for their needs.
Check-In Procedures at Allama Iqbal International Airport
The check-in process at Allama Iqbal International Airport can be done through three methods: online, self-service, and traditional. Online check-in is available 24 hours before the scheduled flight departure time and allows passengers to select their seats, print boarding passes, and avoid long queues at the airport.
Self-service kiosks are available in the departure hall for those who prefer to check-in at the airport but want to avoid waiting in long lines. These kiosks are user-friendly and offer various language options. They allow passengers to print their boarding passes, weigh their baggage, and pay any additional fees if necessary.
For those who prefer traditional check-in, counters are available in the departure hall where passengers can check-in with the assistance of airline staff. Passengers will need to present their passport and travel documents, after which they will receive their boarding pass and baggage tags.
It is recommended that passengers arrive at least two hours prior to their scheduled departure time to ensure that they have ample time to check-in and pass through security. Additionally, passengers should ensure that they have all necessary travel documents and have checked their baggage weight and size restrictions before arriving at the airport to avoid any delays or additional fees.
Security Procedures and Tips at Allama Iqbal International Airport
When arriving at the airport, passengers are required to go through security checks before boarding their flight. The security procedures at Allama Iqbal International Airport include metal detector screening, x-ray scanning of luggage, and body pat-downs if necessary.
To ensure a smooth security check, passengers should remove any metal objects such as belts, watches, and jewelry and place them in their carry-on luggage before going through the metal detector. It is also recommended to wear slip-on shoes to easily remove and put back on during the screening process.
Liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers larger than 100ml are not allowed in carry-on luggage and should be placed in checked baggage instead. Passengers are also advised to follow all security guidelines and regulations to avoid any delays or issues during the screening process.
Customs and Immigration at Allama Iqbal International Airport
Upon arrival at Allama Iqbal International Airport, passengers must first proceed through immigration, where their passports will be stamped and their visas checked. After this, passengers will proceed to the baggage claim area to retrieve their luggage.
Once passengers have their luggage, they will proceed through customs, where they may be asked to declare any items they are bringing into the country. Passengers should make sure they are not bringing any prohibited items, such as weapons or illegal drugs.
When departing from Allama Iqbal International Airport, passengers must first check in for their flight and drop off any checked baggage. They will then proceed through immigration, where their passports will be stamped and their departure recorded.
After immigration, passengers will proceed through security screening before entering the departure lounge. Here, they can shop and dine before boarding their flight. It is important to arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your scheduled departure to allow for these processes.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines, including local Pakistani dishes and international favorites.
- Duty-free shops selling perfumes, cosmetics, electronics, and souvenirs.
- Banks, ATMs, and currency exchange services for convenient financial transactions.
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport for seamless internet access.
- Lounges with comfortable seating and refreshments for premium passengers.
- Showers and prayer rooms for passengers who require them.
- Medical facilities and first aid services for emergency situations.
- Tourist information desks to help travelers plan their time in Lahore and Pakistan.
Accessibility Services
Allama Iqbal International Airport provides facilities and services to make the journey comfortable and convenient for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. These services include special assistance from airport staff, wheelchair assistance, ramps, and accessible washrooms.
Passengers with disabilities can request assistance during the booking process or at the airport. The airport staff will assist them from check-in to boarding and disembarking, making sure that they are taken care of throughout their journey.
Connecting Flights at Allama Iqbal International Airport: Tips and Process
Connecting flights can be stressful, especially if you’re short on time. But with some tips and careful planning, you can make your connection at Allama Iqbal International Airport a breeze.
First, make sure you have enough time between flights. If you’re booking separate tickets, allow at least 3 hours between flights. If you’re booking a single ticket, the airline will usually give you enough time to make your connection.
When you arrive at the airport, look for signs that point to connecting flights. You’ll need to go through security again, so make sure you have enough time for that.
If you have a tight connection, notify the airline staff as soon as possible. They may be able to assist you with expedited security lines or even hold your connecting flight for a few minutes.
Finally, make sure you know the gate number for your connecting flight and keep an eye on the departure boards for any updates. With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to catch your connecting flight at Allama Iqbal International Airport.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After landing at Allama Iqbal International Airport, passengers should proceed to the baggage claim area. This area is well marked and located near the exit doors.
Passengers should have their baggage tags and boarding passes ready to present to the airline personnel. They will help locate and retrieve the luggage.
If a passenger’s luggage is lost or damaged, they must report it immediately to the baggage services office located in the baggage claim area. The airline will provide a report number to identify the missing luggage and track its progress.
Passengers can track their lost luggage online or through the airline’s customer service contact center. If the luggage is found, it will be delivered to the address provided by the passenger.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at Allama Iqbal International Airport, there are several procedures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers and staff. Emergency exits are clearly marked throughout the airport and trained staff are available to provide assistance if needed.
Additionally, medical facilities are available at the airport for any type of medical emergency. The airport has a well-equipped medical center with doctors and nurses on duty 24/7. In case of a major emergency, the airport also has an ambulance service on standby.
Overall, passengers can feel safe and secure knowing that emergency procedures and medical facilities are readily available at Allama Iqbal International Airport.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore. These hotels offer comfortable and convenient lodging options for travelers.
Some of the nearest hotels to the airport include Best Western Lahore, which is only 1.5 km away, and Grace Crown Hotel, which is approximately 1.8 km away.
Other nearby hotels include Royal Swiss Lahore, located at a distance of 2.2 km from the airport, and The Nishat Hotel, which is 3.9 km away.
Other recommended hotel options include Park Plaza Hotel, located 4.3 km away and Pearl Continental Hotel, which is 7.6 km away from the airport.
All these hotels offer various amenities such as free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and shuttle service to and from the airport.
Useful Tips:
Here are some insider tips for making the most out of your time at Allama Iqbal International Airport.
Firstly, make sure you arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare before your flight.
This will allow you to go through security checkpoints and check-in without feeling rushed or stressed.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to pack light and bring only the essentials with you.
This will make moving around the airport much easier and less cumbersome. Lastly, if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask the airport staff for assistance. They are always happy to help make your travel experience as smooth as possible.
Contact Information
– Airport Operator: +92 42 99031000
– Aviation Security: +92 42 99031226/27
– Airport Police/Military Police: +92 42 99031026
– Airport Manager: +92 42 99031002/03
– Lost & Found: +92 42 36686501
– Immigration & Visa: +92 42 36684631/32
– Customs: +92 42 99230317
– Medical Services: +92 42 99031865
Airports Near Allama Iqbal International Airport
There are several airports within a reasonable distance of Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, Pakistan. The closest airport is the Walton Airport, located just 6 km away from the international airport. Other nearby airports include the Sahiwal Airport (133 km), Sialkot International Airport (148 km), and Faisalabad International Airport (170 km).
Transportation options to these airports vary depending on distance and location. Taxis and private car rentals are available from Allama Iqbal International Airport, while public transportation options such as buses may be available for longer distances. It is always advisable to plan ahead and arrange for transportation in advance to avoid potential delays or cancellations.