ISLAMABAD: The New Gwadar International Airport (NGIA) officially opened its doors to commercial air traffic on January 20, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s aviation history.
The inaugural commercial flight, PIA flight PK-503, departed from Karachi at 9:50 am and landed at the state-of-the-art Gwadar airport at 11:15 am, carrying 46 passengers. The aircraft was greeted with a ceremonial water salute upon its arrival, symbolizing the commencement of operations at the new facility.
Speaking about the event, the Pakistan Aviation Authority (PAA) called the successful landing “a landmark moment,” highlighting NGIA’s pivotal role in connecting Pakistan to global markets and advancing trade, tourism, and economic development.
Spanning an area of 4,300 acres, NGIA boasts a range of advanced infrastructure, including a modern runway, aprons, passenger terminals, and technical facilities. Built with an investment of $246 million under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the airport is one of Pakistan’s largest and is expected to handle both domestic and international flights.
The opening of NGIA comes after months of delays. Originally scheduled to launch on August 14, 2024, the inauguration was postponed due to a series of security reviews prompted by attacks from separatist groups in the volatile Balochistan province. Another delay in January extended the timeline until the airport’s eventual operational debut this month.
Defence and Aviation Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, present at the inaugural ceremony, emphasized the airport’s role in fostering economic growth. “This facility will strengthen Pakistan’s global connectivity, open doors for tourism, and create numerous opportunities for trade and development,” he said, thanking the Chinese government for its collaboration on the project.
As part of ongoing developments under CPEC, NGIA is expected to transform Gwadar into a major economic hub, serving as a gateway for trade and tourism in South Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. The airport is also poised to play a crucial role in expanding Pakistan’s access to markets in Europe, Africa, and Central Asia.
The operationalization of the New Gwadar International Airport is a significant step forward in realizing Pakistan’s ambitions for economic integration and regional connectivity.
