The Civil Aviation Authority announced on Wednesday that Skardu airport has been elevated to international status and will begin operations from December 2.
CAA further revealed that airport’s initial operations will be conducted under the Visual Flight Rules (VFR) initially.
According to the ATP Flight School, an aircraft under the VFR, is intended to operate in visual meteorological conditions (i.e. nice and clear weather). Clouds, heavy precipitation, low visibility, and other adverse weather conditions should be avoided under the VFR,
It is pertinent to note that in January 2020, Federal Minister for Aviation Ghulam Sarwar Khan had announced to upgrade Skardu airport to international standards.
The minister had also stated at the time that the Skardu airport was listed among the world’s highest altitude airports, adding that it had become one of the busiest airports in Pakistan.
Sarwar further underlined that a plan was also afoot to expand the Gilgit airport, adding that options were being explored to construct a new airport in Gilgit.
It is pertinent to note that the upgradation of the airport included the construction of a new runway, new terminal building, apron and provision of other facilities to cater to international flight operations.
