In a revolutionary step towards digitalisation, the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has announced that all airports in Pakistan will be converted to a cashless payment system. This initiative, which is being taken in collaboration with The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), will promote transparency and efficiency, as well as make for much easier payment systems and help the growth of Pakistan’s digital economy and fin-tech.
Under the scope of this new service, passengers and visitors will be able to make payments at all airport service points, whether shops, restaurants, parking areas, lounges etc., through the QR code based solutions. This, in turn, will eliminate the necessity for cash payments, making them quicker, safer and more efficient.
The first phase of the operation will be initiated at Islamabad International, Jinnah International Airport Karachi, and Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore, which will be extended to Faisalabad, Multan and Sialkot Airports. The PAA has confirmed that the vendors and staff are being trained to facilitate a seamless transition to the digital system.
For the authorities on hand, this exercise will not only reduce the risks of theft and fraud but will enhance data-driven management of the airport operations, as well. In addition, this initiative is in concert with the State Bank’s plans for a cashless economy and profusion of digital payments throughout the country.
With the combination of technology and convenience in its cashless initiative, the PAA has embarked on that long-awaited quest for better transparency and efficient management of all airport operations. And, in so doing, it has heralded another era of financial and aviation development in Pakistan.
