Allama Iqbal International Airport

Allama Iqbal International Airport is not just an air gateway to the cultural capital of Pakistan, the city of Lahore, but a true architectural monument. Opened in 2003, the new terminal pays tribute to the region's rich history; its design is inspired by the architecture of the Mughal era, immediately immersing travellers in the atmosphere of this amazing city. Named after the national poet and philosopher Muhammad Iqbal, the airport is the third busiest in the country and a vital transport hub that is constantly evolving. A large-scale expansion is planned for the future, which will increase capacity to 20 million passengers per year, and the design of the new complex will resemble a jasmine flower — the national flower of Pakistan.

Allama Iqbal Airport offers passengers a modern level of comfort and service. It consists of three terminals: the Allama Iqbal terminal for international and domestic flights, the Hajj terminal for pilgrims, and a cargo complex. Inside the main terminal, you will find everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight: from shops and restaurants to CIP lounges offering enhanced comfort, banking services, and prayer rooms.

One of the key features of the airport is its status as a hub for the national carrier Pakistan International Airlines, which ensures a wide network of routes both within the country and abroad. In addition, the airport plays an important role in cargo transportation, featuring a modern cargo terminal and constantly increasing its capacity. Its convenient location just 15 kilometres from the centre of Lahore makes it easily accessible for tourists arriving to explore the city's rich cultural heritage.

To contact representatives of Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) or to obtain additional information, please use the following contact details:

• Official Website: Generally, up-to-date information can be found on the airport's official portal www.lahoreairport.com.pk or on the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) website.
• Helpline Phone: +92 42 111 222 114
• Airport Address: Airport Road, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
• Email: For official inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form or email address listed on the official airport website.
• Social Media: News and updates are often published on the airport's official social media pages, if available.
• Lost & Found Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you should first contact the Lost & Found service of your airline. Airline representative contacts are usually located in the arrivals area.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and consultations, you can call the main airport helpline number.

You can get to Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) from the centre of Lahore in several ways, each having its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and preferences. The airport is located relatively close to the main districts of the city, and the journey usually takes from 30 to 60 minutes, although this time may increase during peak hours.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
This is the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. International services such as Uber and Careem operate actively in Lahore, offering rides at fixed and transparent rates. Booking a car via an app is a simple and safe option. You can also use the official airport taxi or a regular city taxi. In the latter case, it is strongly recommended to agree on the fare in advance to avoid misunderstandings. A taxi ride offers the optimal balance of speed, comfort, and price.

Public Transport
For the most budget-conscious travellers, there are options using public transport. Although there is no direct metro or train route to the terminal, you can use city buses that head in the direction of the airport. For example, Daewoo Express buses stop nearby. This method will require more time and possibly an additional short trip by auto-rickshaw from the stop to the terminal entrance. It is best suited for travellers with light luggage who are ready for a bit of adventure.

Car Rental
If you prefer complete freedom of movement, you can rent a car. Both local and international rental agencies operate in the city. However, it is worth noting that traffic in Pakistan can be quite chaotic and challenging for an unaccustomed driver. Many tourists prefer to rent a car with a driver — this removes the stress of navigating unfamiliar streets and allows you to relax on the journey.

Airport Parking
For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented car, convenient parking is provided. There are zones for both short-term (picking up or dropping off passengers) and long-term parking. The parking area is well-guarded, so you can safely leave your vehicle for the duration of your trip.

Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) in Lahore has a well-thought-out and generally easy-to-navigate structure. The airport complex consists of three main terminals, each serving a specific function: the main Allama Iqbal passenger terminal, the Hajj terminal, and the cargo terminal. Most travellers will only interact with the main terminal.

Allama Iqbal Terminal is a modern three-story building that handles all international and domestic flights. Its structure is intuitive:

• Ground Floor: Arrivals area. Here you will find passport control for arriving passengers, baggage claim belts, and customs inspection. After completing formalities, passengers exit into the public hall, where they are met by greeters and where taxi and car rental services are available.
• Second Floor: Departures area. Airline check-in counters, immigration control points, and security screening are located here. After passing through all procedures, passengers enter a spacious waiting area with boarding gates, Duty Free shops, restaurants, and business lounges.
• Third Floor: This floor houses food courts and airline offices.

Hajj Terminal is a separate building dedicated exclusively to serving pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia during the annual Hajj. It operates seasonally and is designed to efficiently handle large groups of people. Ordinary tourists generally do not use this terminal.

Moving around inside the main Allama Iqbal terminal is quite easy thanks to clear signage in English and Urdu. Since all main zones (arrivals, departures, check-in) are in one building, long walks are not required. For completing all formalities before an international flight, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient. During peak hours, waiting times at check-in and security may increase, so it is better to have some extra time.

The history of Allama Iqbal International Airport begins in 1962, when it was opened under the name Lahore International Airport. Originally built to replace the old airport in the Walton area, it quickly became the main transport hub for Lahore and the entire Punjab province, serving both domestic and international flights. For decades, it played a key role in the development of the region, connecting it with the rest of the world.

The most significant stage in the airport's history came at the beginning of the 21st century. In 2003, a new, modern terminal complex was inaugurated, designed to meet the growing needs of air travel. Simultaneously with this event, the airport was renamed in honour of Allama Muhammad Iqbal — a distinguished poet, philosopher, and one of the key figures in the history of Pakistan. This moment became a symbol of modernization and a new stage in the development of the air harbour.

The new terminal, named "Allama Iqbal Terminal", brought radical changes: the first aerobridges were installed, capacity was significantly increased, and a comfortable environment with modern amenities was created for passengers. The old terminal was not abandoned — it was refitted and began to be used for serving pilgrims departing for Hajj. This large-scale reconstruction turned the airport into one of the most modern and busiest in the country.

Since then, the airport continues to develop, regularly updating its infrastructure to maintain high service standards. It is a major hub for the national airline Pakistan International Airlines and many other international carriers. Its history is a vivid example of how a transport hub can grow and transform together with the city, reflecting its ambitions and striving for progress.

Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) in Lahore provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Conditions have been created here for both relaxation and handling work matters, ensuring your journey begins or ends without unnecessary hassle.

If you are hungry, numerous cafes and restaurants operate within the terminal. You can try aromatic dishes of local Pakistani cuisine or choose more familiar international dishes and snacks. In the departures area, there are Duty Free shops offering a wide range of perfumes, cosmetics, souvenirs, and sweets.

For passengers who value enhanced comfort, business lounges and CIP lounges are available. In these, you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, and also work. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and special charging stations for gadgets are provided, allowing you to always stay connected.

To handle financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange points are at passengers' disposal. In case of feeling unwell, you can visit the medical centre. Travellers with children can use mother and child rooms equipped with everything necessary for baby care. For passengers with reduced mobility, special assistance and adapted infrastructure, including ramps and equipped restrooms, are provided.

There are no hotels directly inside the airport building, but several hotels are located near the terminal offering transfer services. For business travellers, some VIP lounges provide basic business services, including workspaces and access to office equipment, allowing for efficient use of waiting time.

At Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, a decent selection of establishments awaits travellers where one can have a snack before departure or a full dinner. Both popular international fast-food chains and cafes offering local cuisine are represented here, catering to different tastes and budgets. Most dining outlets are concentrated in the main terminal serving international and domestic flights.

In the public zone (landside), before passport control, there are usually several cafes and restaurants where well-wishers can also visit. Here you can leisurely drink coffee or have lunch with your family. In the sterile zone (airside), after all formalities, the choice is also quite wide. You will find famous brands such as McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut, and Subway, which offer a familiar menu. This is a convenient option for those looking for a quick and familiar bite.

For a deeper immersion into the gastronomic culture of Pakistan, it is worth paying attention to restaurants serving local cuisine. This is a great opportunity to enjoy aromatic biryani, chicken karahi for the last time, or try fresh pastries, such as samosas. Such establishments offer a more authentic experience and allow you to feel the local flavour without even leaving the airport. Don't forget to order a cup of traditional tea (chai) — it is a warming and delicious ritual.

Almost all food at the airport is Halal, complying with local standards. For vegetarians, there are also plenty of options, as Pakistani cuisine is rich in dishes made from lentils (daal), vegetables, and chickpeas. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but remain within reasonable limits. Major establishments operate around the clock or adjust their schedule to flights, so you can find an open cafe even at night. For passenger convenience, bank cards are accepted almost everywhere.

To ensure your journey through Allama Iqbal International Airport goes smoothly, make use of these tips. Planning in advance will help avoid stress and make waiting for your flight more comfortable.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. This time will be enough to calmly go through all procedures, especially during peak hours. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Keep your passport, ticket, and visa (if necessary) handy, as they may be checked several times.

Security Control and Hand Luggage: At security screening, be prepared to remove outer clothing, belts, and take all metal items out of your pockets. Electronics, including laptops and power banks, must be taken out of your bag. Remember the standard restrictions on carrying liquids in hand luggage: containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and other prohibited items will be confiscated. Always check baggage allowance rules with your airline before leaving for the airport in the city of Lahore.

Seat Selection and Transfers: If possible, choose a seat on the plane when purchasing the ticket or during online check-in. A window seat will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat will allow you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Passengers with long layovers should study the terminal map in advance. Clarify whether you need to collect your luggage or if it will be automatically forwarded to the next flight. In the transit zone, there are shops and cafes where you can spend time.

Customs Control and Saving Money: When entering or leaving Pakistan, be prepared to fill out a customs declaration. Be sure to declare large amounts of cash and valuable items to avoid misunderstandings. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are generally higher, so you can bring a light snack from home.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for up-to-date information and explanations. Monitor updates on the departure boards. Depending on the length of the delay, the airline may be obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Check the terms of your travel insurance — it may cover expenses related to flight delays.