Gwadar, Pakistan – The newly inaugurated Gwadar International Airport witnessed its first international flight on Friday as 39 passengers boarded a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight bound for Muscat. This marks a significant milestone for the $246 million China-funded project, designed to enhance Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.
The flight took off just days after the airport, located in the southwestern province of Balochistan, commenced commercial operations following a months-long delay. Initially slated to open on August 14, 2024, the airport’s launch was postponed due to heightened security concerns stemming from militant attacks in the region. After a comprehensive security review, operations began earlier this week, starting with domestic flights from Karachi.
PIA has announced that it will operate one weekly international flight to Muscat, with plans to expand to three weekly flights between Karachi and Gwadar. The national carrier is also in talks with private airlines and international operators from China, Oman, and the UAE to establish further routes.
Built to accommodate both domestic and international flights, Gwadar International Airport boasts the capacity to handle large aircraft, such as the Airbus A-380, and up to 4 million passengers annually. Future plans for the facility include cold storage, cargo handling facilities, hotels, shopping malls, and banking services.
Part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the airport is a testament to the collaboration between Pakistan, Oman, and China to boost trade and economic activity in the region. The airport complements Gwadar’s deep-water port, which is also nearing completion.
The launch of this state-of-the-art facility underscores Pakistan’s efforts to modernize its infrastructure and foster regional connectivity. PIA, in a statement, reaffirmed its commitment to expanding air operations to meet national aspirations and public needs.
While the airport is a promising development, security remains a challenge. Militant attacks in the province have delayed several projects in the past. However, with enhanced security measures, the government and its partners are optimistic about the facility’s success in transforming Gwadar into a regional hub for trade and tourism.
Gwadar International Airport is set to play a pivotal role in Pakistan’s economic development and regional integration, with its first international flight marking the beginning of a new chapter for the strategically important port city.
