From Our Correspondent:
The New Gwadar International Airport welcomed its first commercial flight on Monday as Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK-503 landed at the state-of-the-art facility. This marks a significant milestone for Pakistan’s aviation and economic development.
According to an official from the Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA), the flight departed Karachi at 9:50 am and landed in Gwadar at 11:15 am, carrying 46 passengers. The inaugural flight was greeted with a traditional water salute upon arrival.
Defence and Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif, alongside Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, personally welcomed passengers at the airport. Speaking at the event, Khawaja Asif highlighted the strategic importance of the new airport, emphasizing its role in boosting economic growth, enhancing tourism, and improving international connectivity.
To honor contributions to the airport’s development, the minister distributed certificates and shields to key individuals during a brief ceremony.
The New Gwadar International Airport spans approximately 4,300 acres and has the capacity to handle 400,000 passengers annually. Its impressive 3.6-kilometer-long runway is designed to accommodate large aircraft such as Boeing 747s and Airbus A380s. Equipped with advanced air traffic control systems, cutting-edge navigational aids, and robust security features, the airport is set to become a hub for trade, tourism, and global connectivity.
The launch of this modern facility signifies a major step forward for Gwadar and Pakistan, connecting the region to international markets and fostering long-term economic development.
