ISLAMABAD - Pakistan has ordered smart scanners for international airports as part of measures intended to make baggage screening easier and reduce unnecessary questioning of passengers.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif issued the directions at an October 10, 2026 meeting reviewing the customs system in Islamabad. Radio Pakistan reported that he approved passenger-facilitation measures and instructed customs officials to avoid subjecting travellers to needless questioning.
Automated screening and staff training
The announcement calls for an automated luggage-screening system based on international practice. Staff providing other airport services are also to receive training aligned with international standards, according to Radio Pakistan.
An Associated Press of Pakistan report carried by UrduPoint, citing the Prime Minister's Office media wing, said the scanners were to be brought into the country by air and installed at international airports. It also reported instructions to make courtesy and respect for passengers central to staff training.
The directions set out a change in the screening approach. They do not establish that the new equipment is already operating nationwide. Travellers should continue to follow the procedures in place at their departure and arrival airports.
Customs review
The meeting considered customs supervision of goods moving through airports, ports and other locations. APP reported that participants were also briefed on digital enforcement stations and measures against petroleum-product smuggling.
The passenger announcement places screening technology and service standards alongside customs enforcement. Further implementation details will be needed to show when the new arrangements become available at individual airports.
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Sources: Radio Pakistan and APP report carried by UrduPoint.