ISLAMABAD: The stunning valleys and majestic mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan are set to witness a historic moment as Skardu Airport prepares to welcome its first-ever international flight from Dubai on August 14.
This exciting development marks a new era of progress and opens doors to exciting international collaborations in the region.
For years, Skardu Airport had been limited to domestic flights due to the lack of a proper refueling facility for international aircraft. However, thanks to the tireless efforts of Khakan Murtaza, Director-General of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and Mr. Syed Muhammad Taha, Managing Director & CEO of Pakistan State Oil (PSO), in collaboration with the Federal Government, this long-standing obstacle has been overcome. The refueling facility is now ready to serve international flights and is set to be inaugurated on August 11.
Khakan Murtaza expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders who played a pivotal role in turning this dream into a reality. He highlighted that the availability of the refueling facility would not only facilitate international flights but also boost the tourism sector, inviting travelers from around the world to explore the enchanting beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan.
The refueling system required to operate international flights will also be installed at Skardu Airport on August 11, according to Mr. Murtaza.
Mr. Syed Muhammad Taha expressed his enthusiasm and emphasized the joint efforts of both government and private entities that made this crucial infrastructure project successful. He stated that this development would foster economic growth in the region and create new opportunities for businesses and local communities.
The upcoming international flight marks a turning point in the history of Skardu and Gilgit-Baltistan as a whole. It is expected to attract foreign investment, promote cross-cultural exchange, and strengthen diplomatic ties. The region’s natural wonders, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality are poised to captivate the hearts of international visitors.
Skardu Airport, known for its capability to handle larger airplanes, is the only airport in Pakistan’s northern region capable of accommodating wide jets like the Airbus A320. The airport was previously connected to Islamabad and major cities in Pakistan through PIA flights, but the recent expansion work has made it capable of handling international flights.
In December 2021, former Prime Minister Imran Khan declared Skardu Airport as “international,” but the lack of a proper refueling facility hindered its full potential. However, with the issue now resolved, the airport is prepared to welcome international flights and embrace a new era of global connectivity.
Recent successes in the aviation sector have already been witnessed, with 12 Airbus A320 flights connecting Skardu with major cities in Pakistan, indicating a rise in tourism to the region.
Additionally, the CAA has clarified that passengers traveling to and from Skardu do not require polio vaccination cards. The CAA warns against falling for fake online offers claiming to provide such cards, stressing that there is no such requirement. Instead, passengers are advised to inquire with airlines about the health policies of the countries they intend to travel to, particularly regarding polio vaccinations.
