The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) began its inspection with Lahore and Multan airports, where passenger services, baggage scanning systems, catering facilities, and overall security arrangements came under review.

According to aviation sources, the Saudi team will carry out audits of eight international airports in Pakistan. These include Islamabad, Peshawar, Karachi, Quetta, Sialkot, Multan, and Lahore. Officials confirmed that Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is fully cooperating with the Saudi experts to ensure smooth assessments.

The audit holds critical importance because the Saudi team is also reviewing security arrangements for flights operating to the Kingdom. Their evaluation will directly affect Pakistan’s aviation safety rating, especially for airlines traveling to Saudi Arabia.

Airport insiders revealed that the results of this audit will set the tone for Pakistan’s international aviation credibility. Adding to the pressure, the American Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) is also scheduled to visit Pakistan next month, raising the stakes even higher.

This audit is not just a routine inspection; it is a decisive test for Pakistan’s aviation sector. Saudi Arabia is one of the largest destinations for Pakistani travelers, with millions flying annually for work, pilgrimage, and business. Any negative findings from the Saudi aviation authority could impact flight operations, delay permissions, or even harm Pakistan’s aviation reputation globally.

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Moreover, with the FAA’s audit due in September, Pakistan faces back-to-back international inspections. Success in these audits could enhance Pakistan’s aviation credibility and open doors for improved global connectivity. Failure, however, might raise serious questions about security standards, efficiency, and international compliance at Pakistani airports.