Allama Iqbal International
Airport Lahore
Your complete guide to Lahore Airport — flights, terminals, parking, services, and everything you need for a smooth journey from LHE.
Your Complete Guide to Lahore Airport
Allama Iqbal International Airport (IATA: LHE, ICAO: OPLA) is the primary international airport serving Lahore, the cultural capital of Pakistan and the second-largest city in the country. Located on Airport Road in the Cantt area, the airport sits approximately 15 kilometres from Lahore’s city centre and operates around the clock, 365 days a year.
Named after the legendary poet-philosopher Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal — whose vision inspired the creation of Pakistan — the airport carries forward a legacy of national pride. Since its establishment in 1962, it has grown from a modest domestic airfield into a major international hub handling over six million passengers annually, making it the third-busiest airport in Pakistan after Karachi (JIAP) and Islamabad (IIAP).
Operated by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), LHE serves as the primary hub for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and an operating base for SereneAir. Dozens of international carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Etihad, and Saudia connect Lahore to destinations across the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia every day.
The existing terminal building is architecturally inspired by the Jasmine — Pakistan’s national flower — a design theme that will be carried forward into the massive new expansion project currently underway. The expansion will transform LHE into one of South Asia’s most modern airports, with capacity increasing from 6 million to over 20 million passengers per year.
This guide covers everything a traveller needs to know before visiting Allama Iqbal International Airport: how to check real-time flight schedules, where to park, which terminal to use, what facilities are inside, how to get to and from the airport, and what to do in case of delays. Whether you are a first-time traveller from Lahore or a frequent flyer returning home, this page is your one-stop reference for all things LHE.
For the most accurate real-time information on flight arrivals and departures, passengers are advised to use the PCAA official portal or their airline’s dedicated mobile app, as schedules can change with short notice — particularly during Lahore’s winter smog season (November to February) when visibility-related disruptions are common.
Everything You Need at LHE
Find real-time flight information, parking options, terminal guides, and travel services — all in one place.
Flight Schedule
Check today’s arrivals and departures, live flight status, delays, and cancellations at Allama Iqbal International Airport.
Parking at LHE
Short-term and long-term parking options with CCTV monitoring. Plan your parking before arriving to save time.
Terminals Guide
Navigate the Main Terminal, Hajj Terminal, and Cargo Terminal. Know exactly where to check in before you arrive.
Transport & Transfers
Taxis, Careem, InDrive, private cars, and bus services available 24/7 outside the arrival terminal.
Facilities & Services
Free Wi-Fi, lounges, duty-free shopping, food courts, prayer rooms, ATMs, and currency exchange inside the terminal.
Airlines & Destinations
PIA, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Saudia, and more connecting Lahore to the Middle East, Europe & Asia.
Airport Map
Interactive terminal map showing check-in counters, gates, lounges, shops, prayer rooms, and parking areas at LHE.
Hotels Near Airport
Best hotels close to Allama Iqbal International Airport — from budget stays to luxury options in DHA and Cantt Lahore.
Airport Lounges
VIP and business class lounge access at LHE — facilities, eligibility, pricing, and how to access them before your flight.
Cargo Services
Import and export freight handling at LHE Cargo Terminal. Information for businesses and individuals shipping goods via air.
Special Assistance
Wheelchair services, elderly passenger support, and disability assistance available at Lahore Airport — how to request help.
Visa & Immigration
Pakistan visa requirements, immigration procedures, and customs guidelines for passengers arriving and departing from LHE.
Lahore’s International Gateway Since 1962
Allama Iqbal International Airport (AIIA) holds a central place in Pakistan’s aviation history. Originally established in 1962 as a modest facility to serve Lahore, it was renamed in honour of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal — the national poet and philosopher whose vision of a separate Muslim homeland contributed directly to the birth of Pakistan in 1947.
Over the following decades, the airport underwent multiple rounds of expansion to keep pace with Lahore’s rapid population growth and increasing international travel demand. Today it is the third-busiest airport in Pakistan, serving over six million passengers every year on routes spanning the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and domestic destinations across the country.
The airport is operated entirely by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) and functions as the primary hub for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). SereneAir also uses LHE as a key operating base for its domestic network. The current terminal building draws architectural inspiration from the Jasmine — Chambeli in Urdu — Pakistan’s national flower, a theme that is central to the upcoming new terminal’s design as well.
- Full Name: Allama Iqbal International Airport
- Operator: Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA)
- Location: Airport Road, Cantt, Lahore, Punjab — Pakistan
- Coordinates: 31°31′17″N 74°24′12″E
- Elevation: 213 m (698 ft) above mean sea level
- Hub for: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA); Operating base for SereneAir
- Architecture: Inspired by the national flower of Pakistan, the Jasmine (Chambeli)
Lahore Airport Flight Schedule
Stay updated with the latest arrivals and departures at Allama Iqbal International Airport.
Allama Iqbal International Airport handles both international and domestic flight operations around the clock. On a typical day, LHE sees dozens of arrivals and departures — with the busiest periods in the early morning and late evening, when most Gulf-region and European flights operate. Flight activity peaks significantly during Eid ul Fitr, Eid ul Adha, the Hajj season, and the Pakistani school summer holiday period (June–August), when passenger volumes can far exceed the terminal’s comfortable capacity.
Checking Arrivals at Lahore Airport: Passengers meeting incoming flights should track their specific flight number through the airline’s official app or website. For general arrival boards, the PCAA portal provides basic schedule information. Incoming international flights typically clear customs and immigration within 45 to 90 minutes of landing, depending on the volume of passengers and queue lengths at the time.
Checking Departures from LHE: For departing passengers, check-in counters typically open three to four hours before the scheduled departure time for international flights and two hours before domestic departures. Gate assignments are posted on the departure boards inside the terminal and can also be verified through individual airline apps. It is strongly recommended to reconfirm your gate number after clearing immigration, as last-minute gate changes do occur at LHE.
Smog Season Delays (November–February): Lahore’s infamous winter smog season poses one of the most consistent disruption risks for travellers flying through LHE. Dense smog can reduce visibility to near-zero conditions on the runway, triggering mandatory holding patterns, diversions to Islamabad or Karachi, or outright cancellations. During this period, passengers are strongly advised to check flight status at least 24 hours before departure, arrive at the airport early regardless of weather reports, and download their airline’s app to receive instant push notifications about changes.
Arrivals (LHE)
Track incoming flights from Dubai, Jeddah, Riyadh, London, Istanbul, Karachi, Islamabad, and more. Live arrival boards are updated every few minutes inside the terminal and on the PCAA portal.
Departures (LHE)
View departure times, gate numbers, check-in desk allocations, and real-time status for all outbound flights from Lahore. Gate numbers are confirmed only after check-in opens — do not rely on advance gate information.
Delays & Cancellations
Flight disruptions are most common during the November–February smog season. PIA flights historically face the highest delay rates. Always verify your flight status directly with your airline before leaving for the airport.
Recommended Arrival Times
Arrive 3 hours early for international flights. For domestic flights, 2 hours is recommended. During Eid and Hajj peaks, add an extra 30–60 minutes as security queues can become very long.
For live, real-time flight tracking visit the official PCAA flight information system or your airline’s app.
Official Airport Website ↗Lahore Airport Terminals
Allama Iqbal International Airport has three distinct terminals, each serving a specific category of travellers.
Understanding which terminal to use before arriving at LHE can save considerable time and stress — especially during the airport’s busiest periods. The three terminals at Allama Iqbal International Airport are physically separated and serve different types of traffic, so confirming your terminal in advance is always advisable. Your airline ticket or booking confirmation will specify the correct terminal for check-in.
Main Terminal (AIIA)
International & Domestic — Open 24/7The Main Terminal is the heart of LHE operations and handles all international and domestic commercial flights. It is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is where the vast majority of passengers will check in, clear security, and board their flights. The terminal is divided into departure and arrival areas across multiple levels, with clear signage throughout.
Facilities inside the Main Terminal include check-in counters for all airlines, immigration and customs, multiple security checkpoints, VIP and business class lounges, a food court with international and local dining, duty-free shopping (post-immigration), currency exchange counters, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms for men and women, baby care rooms, and pharmacies. Special assistance services including wheelchairs and buggy transport are available upon request.
Hajj Terminal
Seasonal — Hajj & Umrah OperationsThe dedicated Hajj Terminal at LHE operates seasonally during the Hajj pilgrimage period, typically from late May through early August depending on the Islamic lunar calendar. It is specifically designed to handle the massive surge of pilgrims departing Lahore for Makkah and Madinah each year — one of the largest organised passenger movements in Pakistan’s aviation calendar.
The Hajj Terminal is equipped with group check-in facilities, dedicated prayer areas, medical examination rooms (required for Hajj clearance), vaccination and health document verification counters, and designated holding lounges for pilgrim groups. All Hajj bookings — whether through the Government Hajj Scheme or private tour operators — will specify if this terminal is in use. Umrah passengers flying on standard commercial flights use the Main Terminal.
Cargo Terminal
Open Daily — Commercial FreightThe LHE Cargo Terminal is a dedicated freight handling facility serving airlines and logistics companies that move goods through Lahore. It processes over 114,882 metric tons of cargo annually, covering both import and export shipments. The terminal serves a critical role in Pakistan’s trade logistics, particularly for textile exports — Lahore and the wider Punjab region being the centre of Pakistan’s garment and textile industry.
All cargo must be cleared through Pakistan Customs before release. Import cargo requires submission of a Bill of Entry, while exports require a Goods Declaration. Businesses and individuals shipping goods via air are advised to use a licensed customs agent (clearing agent) to navigate the documentation process efficiently. The Cargo Terminal has separate office hours from the passenger terminals and does not handle passenger luggage — all checked baggage is managed at the Main Terminal.
Lahore Airport Parking Guide
Allama Iqbal International Airport offers multiple parking areas for cars, motorcycles, and large vehicles. CCTV-monitored and available 24/7.
Parking at Allama Iqbal International Airport is managed by the PCAA and is available around the clock. The airport offers dedicated zones for short-term and long-term car parking, as well as separate areas for motorcycles. All parking zones are monitored by CCTV cameras, and security personnel are present throughout the facility.
Short-Term Parking is located closest to the terminal building entrance, making it ideal for passengers being dropped off or picked up. It is charged on an hourly basis and is most cost-effective for stays of three hours or less. Drivers collecting arriving passengers often use short-term parking to wait once the flight has landed.
Long-Term Parking is recommended for passengers travelling abroad for three days or more. It is located slightly further from the terminal but offers significantly lower daily rates compared to short-term. Trolleys and walkways connect long-term parking to the terminal building. It is advisable to note your parking bay number carefully, as the facility can be very crowded during peak travel seasons.
Motorcycle Parking has a dedicated bay near the terminal and is charged per three-hour block. It is a popular option for passengers being dropped off by family members on bikes, which is very common in Lahore.
Peak Season Advisory: During Eid ul Fitr, Eid ul Adha, the Hajj season, and winter school holidays, the parking facility reaches full capacity very quickly — sometimes within an hour of the morning rush. If you are travelling during these periods, it is strongly recommended to arrange a drop-off and pick-up rather than self-parking, or to arrive at least 90 minutes before your intended time to secure a space.
Short-Term Parking
Best for drop-offs and quick pickups. Located closest to the terminal entrance. Charged per hour. Most economical for stays under 3 hours.
Long-Term Parking
Reduced daily rates for multi-day stays. Slightly further from the terminal with walkway access. Recommended for travellers departing for 3+ days.
Motorcycle Parking
Dedicated motorcycle bays charged per 3-hour block. Secure and CCTV monitored. Separate from the main car parking area.
CCTV & Security
24-hour CCTV surveillance across all zones. Uniformed security staff patrol the parking area throughout the day and night.
Airlines Operating at Lahore Airport
LHE connects Lahore to major destinations across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia through a wide range of international and domestic carriers.
Allama Iqbal International Airport is served by more than a dozen international airlines and three domestic carriers, giving Lahore residents a wide range of options for both business and leisure travel. The most popular routes from LHE are to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries — particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia — driven by the massive overseas Pakistani worker population in those countries who regularly travel back and forth through Lahore.
Emirates operates the highest-frequency international service from LHE, with multiple daily flights to Dubai (DXB) that feed into Emirates’ vast global network at Dubai International Airport. Qatar Airways connects Lahore to Doha (DOH), from where passengers can access hundreds of onward destinations. Turkish Airlines offers Lahore passengers a competitive European connection via Istanbul (IST), which is particularly popular for passengers travelling to the UK, Germany, and other Western European countries where Pakistani diaspora communities are large.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) remains the dominant carrier for both international and domestic routes from LHE, offering direct flights to London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, Saudi Arabian cities, and all major Pakistani domestic destinations. Airblue and SereneAir round out the domestic market with affordable services to Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Multan.
International Airlines
Domestic Airlines
Popular International Destinations from LHE
Dubai (DXB)
Jeddah (JED)
Riyadh (RUH)
Doha (DOH)
Istanbul (IST)
Abu Dhabi (AUH)
London (LHR)
Madinah (MED)
Domestic Routes from Lahore
Karachi (KHI)
Islamabad (ISB)
Multan (MUX)
Peshawar (PEW)
Services Inside Lahore Airport
The main terminal at Allama Iqbal International Airport is equipped with all essential passenger amenities for a comfortable travel experience.
Travelling through an airport can be stressful — but knowing what services are available inside LHE can make a significant difference. The Main Terminal has been progressively upgraded over the years to meet the needs of modern international travellers, and offers a reasonable range of facilities for a terminal of its size. Below is a detailed breakdown of what you can expect to find inside Allama Iqbal International Airport.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal building — in the check-in hall, departure lounges, arrival areas, and food courts. The connection is provided at no charge and does not require registration, though speed can vary during peak periods. Passengers are advised to download any necessary apps or documents before arriving at the airport as a backup in case the connection is slow.
Currency exchange is available at multiple counters located in both the pre-immigration and post-immigration areas. Commonly exchanged currencies include US Dollar (USD), British Pound (GBP), Euro (EUR), Saudi Riyal (SAR), UAE Dirham (AED), and Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD). Exchange rates vary between counters, so it is worth comparing rates if you are exchanging a large amount. ATMs from HBL, MCB, and UBL are available for withdrawals in Pakistani Rupees.
Free Wi-Fi
Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal building. No registration required — connect to the airport network and browse instantly.
VIP Lounges
Premium passenger lounges with comfortable seating, light meals, beverages, and business facilities. Access available to business class passengers and eligible frequent flyer card holders.
Duty-Free Shopping
International duty-free outlets available after immigration clearance offering perfumes, cosmetics, electronics, chocolates, clothing, and Pakistan-specific souvenirs.
Food Courts & Cafés
Multiple dining options including local Pakistani food stalls, international snack chains, bakeries, and cafés operating in both departure and arrival areas at different budget levels.
Prayer Rooms
Dedicated, clean Namaz areas for men and women located inside the terminal building. Qibla direction is clearly indicated. Wudu facilities are provided adjacent to the prayer spaces.
Baby Rooms
Child-friendly care rooms for families with infants and young children. Includes changing tables and seating for nursing mothers. Located within the main passenger areas of the terminal.
Currency Exchange
Multiple foreign currency exchange counters in departure and arrival areas. Exchange PKR to and from USD, GBP, EUR, AED, SAR, and more. Compare rates before exchanging.
ATMs
ATM machines from HBL, MCB, and UBL are available inside the terminal. Withdrawals are in Pakistani Rupees only. International cards with Visa or Mastercard are generally accepted.
Special Assistance
Wheelchair services and special assistance for elderly passengers, those with disabilities, and unaccompanied minors. Notify your airline at least 48 hours in advance to ensure availability.
Transport Options at Lahore Airport
Multiple transport options connect the airport to Lahore city centre and surrounding areas 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Getting to and from Allama Iqbal International Airport is straightforward for most Lahore residents, as the airport is well connected to the city via multiple road routes. The airport is located on Airport Road in Cantt, approximately 15 kilometres from central Lahore and about 20–35 minutes by road depending on traffic. The main access route passes through the Walton Road and Defence area, and traffic can be heavy during morning and evening peak hours on weekdays.
Careem and InDrive have become the most popular transport options for LHE passengers in recent years. Both apps operate 24 hours a day, and fares are generally lower and more transparent than traditional airport taxis. Passengers are advised to book their ride via app while still inside the terminal and wait in the designated pick-up area outside the arrivals hall. During busy periods such as Eid, surge pricing may apply — considering this, booking in advance or having cash ready for a metered taxi are good backup plans.
Official Airport Taxis are available immediately outside the arrivals exit and provide a metered service to destinations across Lahore. They are slightly more expensive than app-based rides but offer the convenience of no wait time and no need for a smartphone. Ensure the driver engages the meter before departing or agree on a fare in advance to avoid disputes.
Official Airport Taxis
Metered taxis available immediately outside arrivals. No app needed. Slightly higher fares than ride-hailing but zero wait time and convenient for elderly passengers or those with heavy luggage.
Careem & InDrive
Pakistan’s most popular ride-hailing apps, operating 24/7 at LHE. Book via app before landing and collect your driver at the designated pickup area outside arrivals for a seamless, cashless experience.
Private Car / Hotel Transfers
Many Lahore hotels offer complimentary or low-cost airport transfers for guests. Private car arrangements can also be made in advance through travel agencies — highly recommended during Hajj and Eid seasons.
Bus Services
Public and private bus services connect the airport to various areas of Lahore. The most budget-friendly option for passengers travelling light. Journey times vary significantly depending on traffic and route.
📍 Location: Allama Iqbal International Airport is located on Airport Road, Cantt, Lahore, Punjab — approximately 15–20 minutes from the city centre. Nearby areas include DHA Lahore, Cantt, and Garden Town.
Lahore Airport Expansion Project
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) has approved one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in Pakistan’s recent history — a comprehensive expansion of Allama Iqbal International Airport that will transform LHE from a mid-sized regional hub into a world-class aviation facility.
The new terminal design, inspired by Pakistan’s national flower the Jasmine (Chambeli), will dramatically increase capacity from the current six million passengers per year to over 20–25 million annually. The project includes a completely new passenger terminal building spanning 325,000 square metres, replacing much of the existing infrastructure. Gates will increase from 7 to 22, with 31 new boarding bridges and additional remote aircraft bays. The apron and taxiway areas will be expanded by 310,000 square metres to accommodate the increased aircraft movements.
Beyond the terminal itself, the expansion includes a new runway, a modern multi-level car park, improved access roads, a dedicated hotel within the airport precinct, a large duty-free retail mall, and a significantly upgraded cargo terminal. The total estimated investment for the full project is approximately USD 1.5 billion. Phase 2 completion is targeted for 2027, though aviation infrastructure projects of this scale often face timeline adjustments.
- Terminal expanded to 325,000 sq. metres
- Gates increased from 7 to 22, with additional remote bays
- 31 new boarding bridges to be added
- Annual passenger capacity: 6 million → 20–25 million
- New runway and expanded cargo terminal
- Apron and taxiway expansion of 310,000 sq. metres
- New hotel, duty-free mall, and retail outlets
- Improved access roads to the airport
- Estimated total investment: ~$1.5 Billion USD
Essential Travel Tips for Lahore Airport
Make your journey through Allama Iqbal International Airport stress-free with these practical tips from experienced LHE travellers.
Arrive Early — Always
Arrive at least 3 hours before international departures and 2 hours before domestic flights. Security queues at LHE can be unpredictable — particularly in the early morning hours when multiple Gulf-region flights depart simultaneously. During Eid and Hajj seasons, add an extra 45 to 60 minutes to your timeline.
Monitor Smog Advisories in Winter
Between November and February, Lahore’s thick smog can reduce runway visibility below the minimum required for landing and takeoff. During this period, check your flight status through your airline’s app at least twice — once the evening before and again on the morning of departure. Delays of 3 to 8 hours or full cancellations are not uncommon.
Pre-Book Your Transport
Do not assume taxis or app-based rides will be easily available outside arrivals during peak periods. Download Careem or InDrive before your flight and book your ride while still in the terminal or as soon as you land. During Eid weeks, transport from LHE can be extremely congested and waiting times can exceed 30–40 minutes.
Carry All Travel Documents
Immigration at LHE strictly checks all documentation. International travellers need a valid passport, valid visa for the destination country, and printed or digital boarding pass. Domestic travellers require a valid CNIC or passport. Keep documents in a single accessible folder or sleeve rather than scattered across bags to avoid delays at security.
Compare Currency Rates
Multiple currency exchange counters operate inside LHE, and their rates can differ meaningfully from one another. If you are exchanging a significant amount — for example, before an extended trip abroad — it is worth spending two minutes comparing displayed rates at different counters before committing. Airport rates will generally be less favourable than bank rates in the city, so exchange the minimum needed at the airport.
Use Free Wi-Fi for Flight Updates
Connect to the airport’s free Wi-Fi as soon as you enter the terminal to check your gate assignment, receive any airline notifications about delays, and stay in contact with family or colleagues. Download your boarding pass to your phone before arriving so you have a backup if internet access is poor inside the departure lounge.
Common Questions About Lahore Airport
Answers to the most common questions travellers have before visiting Allama Iqbal International Airport.
What is the IATA code for Lahore Airport?
The IATA code for Allama Iqbal International Airport is LHE and the ICAO code is OPLA. When booking flights, searching for your itinerary online, or tracking a flight, always use LHE to refer to Lahore Airport. This code is universally recognised by all airlines and flight tracking services worldwide.
Where is Lahore Airport located and how far is it from the city?
Allama Iqbal International Airport is located on Airport Road, Cantt, Lahore, Punjab — approximately 15 kilometres (about 9.3 miles) from Lahore’s city centre. Under normal traffic conditions, the journey from central Lahore takes 15 to 25 minutes by car. From DHA Lahore or Cantt, the airport is typically 10 to 15 minutes away. The journey can take significantly longer during morning and evening rush hours on weekdays.
Is there free Wi-Fi at Lahore Airport?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the Main Terminal at LHE, including the check-in hall, security waiting areas, departure gates, arrival hall, and food court. No registration or password is typically required — simply select the airport network from your device’s Wi-Fi settings and you should be connected automatically. Speed may be reduced during very busy periods.
Does Lahore Airport have long-term parking?
Yes. LHE offers both short-term parking (charged hourly, closest to the terminal) and long-term parking (charged at daily rates, slightly further from the terminal). Long-term parking is ideal for passengers departing for three or more days and offers meaningfully lower per-day costs. Both parking zones are monitored by CCTV and have security personnel on site 24 hours a day.
Which airlines fly from Lahore Airport?
LHE is served by over a dozen airlines. International carriers include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways, Saudia, flydubai, Air Arabia, flynas, Kuwait Airways, and PIA’s international operations. Domestic routes are served by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Airblue, and SereneAir, connecting Lahore to Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, Multan, and other Pakistani cities.
How many terminals does Lahore Airport have?
LHE has three terminals: the Main Terminal (AIIA) — open 24/7, handling all international and domestic commercial flights; the Hajj Terminal — a seasonal facility operating during the Hajj pilgrimage period exclusively for outbound pilgrims; and the Cargo Terminal — a dedicated freight facility for import and export shipments, separate from all passenger operations.
What transport options are available from Lahore Airport?
Four main transport options connect LHE to the city: official metered airport taxis (available immediately outside arrivals, no app needed), Careem and InDrive app-based ride-hailing services (most affordable and popular option), pre-booked private car or hotel transfers, and public or private bus services (most budget-friendly for passengers travelling light). All four operate 24 hours a day.
Is there currency exchange at Lahore Airport?
Yes. Multiple currency exchange counters operate at LHE in both the arrivals and departures areas. Commonly exchanged currencies include US Dollar (USD), British Pound (GBP), Euro (EUR), Saudi Riyal (SAR), UAE Dirham (AED), and Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD). Rates vary between counters, so compare before exchanging. ATMs from Pakistani banks are also available inside the terminal for PKR cash withdrawals.
Why are flights at Lahore Airport delayed in winter?
Lahore experiences severe smog from November through February each year, caused by a combination of vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, crop burning in surrounding agricultural areas, and low wind speeds during winter months. When visibility drops below the minimum required threshold for safe take-off and landing, flights are placed in holding patterns, diverted to other airports, or cancelled. Travellers flying through LHE during this period should always check their flight status the evening before and morning of departure.
Can I get special assistance at Lahore Airport?
Yes. Allama Iqbal International Airport provides wheelchair services, buggy transport within the terminal, and dedicated support for elderly passengers, passengers with disabilities, and unaccompanied minors. To ensure assistance is arranged in advance, notify your airline at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before your flight. On the day of travel, you can also request assistance at the airline’s check-in counter, though advance notification is strongly recommended.
What is the new Lahore Airport expansion project?
The PCAA has approved a major expansion of LHE that will see the terminal building grow to 325,000 square metres, gates increase from 7 to 22, and annual passenger capacity rise from 6 million to over 20–25 million. The project, estimated at approximately USD 1.5 billion, also includes a new runway, expanded cargo facilities, improved access roads, a hotel, and a retail mall. The new terminal design takes inspiration from Pakistan’s national flower — the Jasmine (Chambeli). Phase 2 completion is targeted for 2027.
What are the prayer facilities at Lahore Airport?
The Main Terminal at LHE has dedicated Namaz rooms for both men and women. These are clean, designated prayer spaces with proper Wudu (ablution) facilities adjacent to them. The Qibla direction is clearly marked inside each prayer room. Prayer rooms are accessible to all passengers without charge and are available throughout the terminal’s operating hours — which is 24 hours a day, year-round.
Allama Iqbal International Airport
Airport Road, Cantt, Lahore, Punjab 54000 — Pakistan