Pakistan bans VIP protocol at airports

The Pakistan government has ordered an end to the VIP treatment traditionally given to influential passengers at airports, directing officials to ensure that all travellers are treated equally during immigration and baggage clearance.

The decision took effect on Sunday after the Interior Ministry instructed officials of the Federal Investigation Agency's (FIA) immigration wing to strictly enforce the new rules, according to local media reports.

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said the move was aimed at eliminating preferential treatment and ensuring that ordinary passengers and influential travellers follow the same procedures.

"We have decided to strictly implement the decision to provide equal opportunities to all travellers without any discrimination," Chaudhry said.

He said influential passengers had often sought the assistance of FIA personnel at airports, with officials sometimes accompanying them and helping speed up immigration and baggage clearance.

The practice had reportedly benefited a wide range of people, including politicians, lawmakers, senior bureaucrats, judges, military officials and journalists.

The government has warned that FIA personnel found providing unauthorised VIP protocol could face strict disciplinary action.

Airport immigration counters will also be monitored more closely. If officials are found giving special treatment to a VIP passenger, both the immigration staff involved and the officer supervising the relevant shift could face immediate suspension.

The move follows concerns over the visibly different treatment received by influential passengers at airports. At the former Benazir Bhutto International Airport in Islamabad, VIP travellers could use a dedicated lounge while their baggage was handled with assistance from FIA officials, airport security personnel or Civil Aviation Authority staff.

The situation is different at the newer Islamabad airport near Fatehjang, where passengers are required to follow the standard procedures.

The government's decision is being presented as part of a broader effort to promote equality in public services and reduce the culture of preferential treatment for powerful and well-connected individuals.