Allama Iqbal International Airport
Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) is a major hub airport near Lahore in Pakistan. This page covers the essentials — IATA + ICAO codes, location, live flight status, and hotels nearby.
Getting to + from the city
Taxi to central Lahore (Anarkali or Gulberg) is 1,000–1,800 PKR ($4–7) and 30–50 min. Careem is the honest rideshare option. Pre-paid taxi from the arrivals counter. Metrobus doesn't reach the airport directly.
Terminals
Single integrated terminal handles all international + domestic. PIA is the dominant carrier; Qatar, Etihad, Emirates, Saudia all serve. New international + domestic wings being expanded — newer than KHI.
What's actually good
Plaza Premium Lounge (Priority Pass) serves Pakistani breakfast — keema naan, channa, lassi. Real Punjabi food court airside — the chicken karahi is honest. SIM at Jazz or Telenor (~$3 for 5 GB). Wi-Fi via SMS to local number.
Avoid
Currency exchange at the airport rate (use ATMs in town). Drinking tap water. Booking domestic transfers <2h. Photographing the military side of the airfield (LHE is a joint civilian-military facility). Smoking outside designated rooms.