Islamabad Intl Airport (ISB) Flights & Flight Status

Islamabad International Airport (ISB) is located approximately 25 kilometres from the capital city and serves as the main gateway for both domestic and international travellers in Pakistan. Opened in May 2018, ISB replaced the old Benazir Bhutto International Airport, offering modern facilities and a much-needed capacity upgrade for the region.

As the primary hub for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), it also plays a significant role in the national aviation sector by connecting major cities across Pakistan and serving numerous international destinations, particularly in the Middle East, Europe and Asia. It is the second-busiest airport in Pakistan, handling up to 9 million passengers annually.

ISB is also the first in the country with dual airbridges capable of serving large aircraft such as the Airbus A380. The airport's strategic location at the crossroads of the capital and the northern regions makes it a crucial hub.

Arrival experience

Arriving at Islamabad International Airport presents passengers with a relatively smooth process thanks to the modern infrastructure and organized layout. Upon landing, passengers are directed to the arrivals hall through airbridges or buses, depending on the aircraft parking position. The airport features a spacious arrival hall offering ample seating and clear signage to assist passengers in navigating through the various stages of arrival.

Moreover, the immigration process is typically straightforward with well-staffed immigration officers and separate lanes for Pakistani citizens, foreigners and those holding diplomatic status. However, during peak hours, there can be noticeable delays. On several occasions during my visit, the wait times were extended due to slow processing speeds and long queues at immigration.

As the baggage claim area is located adjacent to the immigration counters, the wait times are generally acceptable but there have been occasional delays in luggage delivery. However, while the terminal design is impressive, the cleanliness of some areas is a notable concern. There have been instances where the maintenance of the facilities, especially the restrooms, has not been up to the mark.

Departure experience

For those departing from Islamabad International Airport, it's recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours before a domestic one. This allows sufficient time for check-in, security screening and potential delays during peak travel hours. The check-in counters are generally well-organized and the process is typically fast, but during holiday seasons or flight surges, passengers may face longer lines.

After check-in, security can be a bottleneck, especially for international travellers. Although the airport is equipped with multiple screening stations, delays do occur, particularly during peak hours, so allowing extra time for this process is wise.

While waiting in the departure lounge, passengers have access to a wide range of duty-free shops and food outlets. However, the cleanliness of the restrooms here mirrors the issues found in the arrival area. Luckily, most staff at the airport are professional and courteous.

Facilities and services

Islamabad International Airport offers a variety of facilities and services aimed at enhancing the passenger experience. The terminal is equipped with a range of amenities catering to both international and domestic travellers, though the availability of these services can vary.

The airport features a handful of lounges, including the CIP Lounge for premium passengers and the State/Diplomatic Lounge. These lounges provide a quieter space away from the busy terminal, offering complimentary food, beverages and Wi-Fi access. For those flying business or first class, these lounges are generally well-maintained and offer comfortable seating with a decent selection of refreshments.

Moreover, the duty-free shopping area is well-stocked with a wide range of international and local products. However, prices tend to be on the higher side compared to other regional airports.

Food outlets, Wi-Fi and prayer rooms

There is also a decent selection of restaurants, cafés and fast-food outlets available throughout the terminal catering to various tastes. During busy periods, seating in the dining areas may be hard to find, which could be inconvenient for families and groups. At times, the variety can feel limited, especially in the early morning or late at night when fewer outlets are open.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, but its speed and reliability can fluctuate. I found the connection strong in the lounges and waiting areas, while the speed was slower in the main terminal. For those relying on uninterrupted internet access, I would suggest purchasing cellular data packages as a backup.

Islamabad International Airport also provides separate prayer rooms for men and women located conveniently throughout the terminal. These facilities are generally clean and well-maintained, offering a quiet space for prayer.

Transport options to and from ISB

Islamabad International Airport offers several transport options to accommodate passengers travelling to and from the airport. Whether for local residents or international visitors, the available choices are diverse enough to suit different needs and preferences.

Taxis are the most readily available form of transportation at ISB. Taxi stands are located just outside the terminal, with both metered taxis and privately arranged services on offer. While taxis are generally convenient and quick, I would suggest you agree on the fare in advance, especially with non-metered services, as some drivers may attempt to charge higher prices for unwary travellers.

Popular ride-sharing platforms such as Uber and Careem operate to and from ISB. These rides can be booked via their respective apps, and drivers usually arrive at designated pick-up points near the arrivals area. While often cheaper than taxis, surge pricing during peak hours can increase fares significantly. It’s recommended to check the app for estimated prices before booking. Ride-sharing is probably the most reliable option for passengers familiar with these services.

For those looking for more independence, several rental car companies, both local and international, operate at the airport. Car rental desks are located inside the terminal, offering a range of vehicles. Prices vary by the type of car and rental duration, with options for daily or longer-term rentals.

Renting is a good option for passengers planning to stay in Pakistan for an extended period or those who prefer the flexibility of driving themselves. However, it is advisable to book rental cars in advance, especially during the peak travel season.

Alternative means of transportation

Many major hotels in Islamabad offer complimentary shuttle services for their guests. These shuttles can be pre-booked through the hotel and usually pick up passengers from designated areas outside the terminal.

Public buses connect Islamabad Airport to different parts of the city. Though not as convenient as taxis or ride-sharing options, they are the most economical choice for budget-conscious travellers. The buses operate at fixed intervals, though schedules can be less frequent during off-peak hours and delays are common. These buses stop at various points in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, making it possible for passengers to connect to other local transit options.

If you are driving yourself to the airport, ISB provides ample parking spaces, with separate areas for short-term and long-term parking. The parking lots are located within walking distance of the terminal and are secure, with hourly and daily rates available. However, it’s worth noting that during peak travel periods, finding a parking spot can be challenging due to the airport’s growing passenger traffic.

In summary, passengers at Islamabad International Airport have several transport options to choose from, whether they need quick access to the city or are looking for more cost-effective solutions. I found the ride-sharing apps and hotel shuttles quite convenient alternatives to public transport.

Additional facilities

Currency exchange counters are located within both the arrival and departure areas, with competitive rates offered for major international currencies. There are also multiple ATMs throughout the terminal, making it convenient for passengers to withdraw local currency.

The airport is equipped with a medical centre that provides basic healthcare services for passengers in need of urgent care. This facility is staffed with trained medical personnel and is available 24 hours. For more serious cases, passengers may be transferred to nearby hospitals.

Luggage carts are freely available for use throughout the airport. Additionally, passengers can access porter services for a fee. There are also baggage wrapping services available in the departure area for those looking to add an extra layer of protection to their luggage.