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First Commercial Flight Lands at Gwadar’s New International Airport
PIA’s PK-503 becomes the first commercial flight to land at Gwadar’s state-of-the-art airport, ushering in a new era of connectivity and growth.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-20
First Commercial Flight Lands at Gwadar’s New International Airport

A Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight landed at the New Gwadar International Airport on Monday, marking the first commercial operation at the recently inaugurated facility.

According to the Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA), the flight, PK-503, departed from Karachi at 9:50 AM and touched down at Gwadar at 11:15 AM with 46 passengers onboard. This inaugural landing signifies a significant step in Pakistan's efforts to enhance regional and international connectivity.

The arrival was celebrated with a water salute and a warm welcome by Defence and Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti. Addressing the gathering, Minister Asif highlighted the strategic importance of the new airport, stating, "This facility will drive economic growth, foster regional tourism, and strengthen international trade routes."

Constructed with a $230 million grant from China, the airport boasts a 3,648-meter-long runway capable of accommodating large aircraft, including Boeing 747s and Airbus A380s. Covering 4,300 acres, the airport includes a 14,000-square-meter passenger terminal, advanced air traffic control systems, a community hospital, and other auxiliary services.

The facility has an annual passenger capacity of 400,000, expandable to 1.6 million. It aims to connect Pakistan to global markets and facilitate trade, tourism, and economic development.

Despite its potential, the airport had previously remained underutilized due to limited marketing efforts and a lack of international partnerships. The inaugural flight marks the beginning of its operational journey, with expectations of transforming Gwadar into a significant aviation and trade hub.

Certificates and shields were distributed to key contributors to the project’s success. The PAA emphasized the airport’s role in enhancing connectivity and its long-term impact on the country’s economy.
Tagged:

PIA

Connectivity

EconomicGrowth

GwadarAirport

PakistanAviation
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