Faisalabad Airport

Faisalabad International Airport (IATA: LYP, ICAO: OPFA) is a vital aerial gateway to the Punjab province and Pakistan's third-largest city, Faisalabad. Located just 10 km from the business centre, it serves as a departure point for millions of residents in the region and the significant Pakistani diaspora abroad. The airport is constantly evolving, having undergone major modernization to accommodate larger aircraft and increase passenger flow. In addition to commercial transport, the airfield acts as a base for two flying schools where future pilots and aviation enthusiasts are trained.

Faisalabad Airport offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable journey. The terminal features VIP and CIP lounges for premium passengers, separate prayer rooms, as well as several cafes and souvenir shops. For the convenience of travellers, baggage wrapping services, currency exchange counters, and ATMs are available. The airport is well-connected to the city: you can reach the centre by taxi, bus, or via popular ride-hailing services.

Despite its relatively small size, the airport is capable of handling medium-range aircraft, including the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. Regular flights connect Faisalabad with key hubs in the Middle East, such as Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, and Medina, as well as with Pakistan's largest city, Karachi. This makes the airport an important transit point for both domestic and international travel.

• Official Website: As of the last update, the most current information is provided by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). It is recommended to visit their official website caapakistan.com.pk for data regarding the airport.
• Helpline Number: +92 41 9201595
• Address: Jhang Road, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan
• Email: For official inquiries, you may use the email associated with the PCAA: apmfaisalabad@caapakistan.com.pk
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own active social media pages. News and updates can be found on PCAA resources.
• Lost Baggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's support service directly. Representative contacts are usually found at check-in counters or in the arrivals area.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and support, please use the airport helpline number.

There are several ways to get to Faisalabad International Airport (IATA: LYP), which serves the city of Faisalabad and its surroundings in Pakistan. The airport is located approximately 15 kilometres from the city centre, and the journey usually takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

The most convenient and popular way to reach the airport is by taxi. You can use services from official taxi companies or mobile apps like Uber or Careem, which are widely used in the city. The cost of a trip from central Faisalabad is relatively low. It is recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance or ensure the meter is running to avoid misunderstandings. A pre-booked transfer is also an excellent option, especially if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or at night.

Public Transport

There is no direct bus or train service to Faisalabad Airport. Although the city has a network of vans and buses, they may not be the most comfortable choice for tourists with suitcases due to overcrowding and complex routes. You can use an auto-rickshaw to get to the main road and try to find transport to the airport from there, but this method requires local knowledge and a sense of adventure.

Car Rental and Parking

You can rent a car in Faisalabad, giving you complete freedom of movement. However, it is worth noting that traffic in the city can be chaotic and unfamiliar to foreign drivers. Many tourists prefer to rent a car with a driver. Faisalabad Airport has a parking area where you can leave your vehicle for short or long periods. The parking zones are guarded, ensuring the safety of your vehicle.

Faisalabad International Airport (LYP) is a compact and modern aviation hub characterized by a simple and passenger-friendly structure. Its layout makes staying here comfortable and allows for quick processing of all pre-flight and post-flight formalities.

Structure and Navigation

The airport consists of one main terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, passengers do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings. All infrastructure is located under one roof, which significantly simplifies navigation. The terminal layout is intuitive: arrival and departure zones are clearly separated, and signs in English and Urdu help you orient yourself easily.

Departure and Arrival Zones

The Departure Hall is located on the upper level of the terminal. Here you will find airline check-in counters, security screening points, and passport control. After completing formalities, passengers enter the general waiting area with boarding gates, where there are separate sections for domestic and international flights. The Arrival Hall is located on the ground floor. Passengers arriving on international flights first go through passport control, then collect their luggage and pass through customs. They are met in the arrivals area, where taxi and car rental offices are also located.

Processing Times and Recommendations

Due to the terminal's compact size, procedures at Faisalabad Airport are usually completed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic one. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security without rushing, especially during peak periods. For navigation, simply follow the signs: finding the right counter or boarding gate is easy even for those visiting this airport for the first time.

Faisalabad Airport (LYP), known as Faisalabad International Airport, is a key transport hub for Pakistan's third-largest city and a major industrial centre of the country. Its history is closely tied to the economic growth of Faisalabad, often called the "Manchester of Pakistan" for its developed textile industry.

The airport's history began with a modest runway used primarily for the needs of a flying club. A significant phase of development started in 1965, when the decision was made to modernize it. A key moment in the airport's history was 1972, when a new runway capable of handling jet aircraft was built. The first such vessel was a Boeing 707 from Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), opening a new era in regional air connectivity.

With the growing number of Pakistanis working in the Gulf countries, the need for a larger terminal increased. In 1985, a new terminal building was constructed, significantly improving passenger service. However, the most extensive reconstruction and expansion of the airport was completed in 2018. During these works, the departure and arrival halls were modernized, their area increased, equipment updated, and general infrastructure improved, allowing the airport to meet modern international standards.

An interesting fact: the city was renamed from Lyallpur to Faisalabad in 1979, but the airport officially received its current name — Faisalabad International Airport — somewhat later. Today, the airport plays a crucial role not only in passenger transport, including Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage flights, but also serves as an important centre for air cargo, handling export flows of textile products from the region to the world.

Faisalabad International Airport (LYP) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Although the airport is not one of the largest in Pakistan, it is well-equipped to meet the basic needs of travellers.

Inside the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat before departure, as well as drink tea or coffee. Additionally, there are shops where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, and local handicraft products. For those who prefer more comfortable conditions, VIP lounges are available. Here, passengers can relax in a quiet atmosphere and enjoy complimentary snacks. Business travellers should note that there are no specialized conference rooms or business centres at the airport, but conditions for work are created within the lounges.

For passenger convenience, Wi-Fi access is provided at the airport, and charging stations for mobile devices are installed in the waiting halls. Financial matters can be handled at bank branches or currency exchange points. ATMs are also operational within the terminal. If necessary, you can visit the medical centre for first aid.

The airport also caters to passengers with special needs. Mother and child rooms are equipped for travellers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided assistance in moving around the terminal, including wheelchairs, and the airport infrastructure is adapted for their convenience. Although there are no hotels directly inside the airport building, many accommodation options can be found in the city of Faisalabad itself, which is located in close proximity.

Faisalabad International Airport (LYP) offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal before departure. While the selection of establishments here is not as vast as in major global hubs, you can find both local cuisine and familiar international snacks. Most cafes and kiosks are located in the main hall and in the departure zone after passing security control.

If you want to experience local cuisine, be sure to try traditional snacks. Look out for samosas (fried pastries with a spicy potato or meat filling) or pakoras (vegetables fried in batter). This is a great option for a quick and filling snack. For a more substantial lunch, you can look for places serving chicken curry or aromatic biryani. And, of course, do not miss the opportunity to drink a cup of authentic Pakistani tea (chai) — strong, with milk and spices.

Travellers with special dietary needs should know that virtually all food at the airport is Halal. Vegetarians will also easily find suitable dishes, for example, lentil curry (daal) or vegetable snacks. It may be more difficult to find gluten-free and vegan options, so it is recommended to clarify the ingredients directly with the vendors.

The price range at Faisalabad Airport is quite moderate, although slightly higher than in the city itself. Operating hours for most catering establishments are tied to the flight schedule, so some cafes may be closed at night or between flights. For a quick snack, sandwiches, pastries, or local snacks are ideal, while for a full lunch, it is best to visit one of the small cafes in the departure lounge.

To ensure your journey through Faisalabad airport goes smoothly, follow our tips. When planning your departure, arrive at the airport well in advance: 2.5–3 hours before an international flight and 1.5–2 hours before a domestic one. This will give you enough time to calmly complete all formalities, especially during peak hours.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to avoid queues at check-in counters. Screening procedures at the airport are standard but can be quite thorough. Prepare all liquids (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and electronic devices in advance so you can quickly present them at security control.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat will offer you beautiful views during takeoff and landing, especially if your route passes over picturesque areas of Pakistan, whilst an aisle seat provides more legroom and freedom of movement around the cabin.

Be sure to pack all valuables, documents, necessary medication, and a portable charger in your hand luggage. Remember the standard restrictions: sharp objects, flammable liquids, and other dangerous substances are prohibited. Rules may differ slightly between carriers, so it is better to verify them on your airline's website.

If you have a connecting flight, find out in advance if you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Faisalabad Airport is not a major international hub, so long layovers happen infrequently here. Nevertheless, it is always useful to have a clear plan of action.

Customs control upon entering the country requires filling out a declaration. If you are carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items, be sure to declare them to avoid misunderstandings. Be prepared to answer standard questions about the purpose of your visit and the duration of your stay.

To save money, book a transfer from the airport in advance online or via trusted services — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. You can also have a snack before travelling to the airport, as prices in cafes on its premises are generally higher. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline's representative counter. Staff will provide current information on the flight status and explain your rights to receive drinks, meals, or hotel accommodation depending on the length of the wait. Be sure to keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses — they may be needed to claim compensation.