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Gwadar International Airport Opens with First Commercial Flight

The facility is expected to serve up to 400,000 passengers annually, with future capacity projected to reach 1.6 million.

Gwadar International Airport has officially commenced operations with the successful landing of its first commercial flight on Monday, marking a significant milestone for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

The inaugural flight, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK-503, took off from Karachi at 9:50 AM and landed in Gwadar at 11:15 AM, carrying 46 passengers.

Defence and Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti, and other officials welcomed the passengers at the airport.

A water cannon salute was performed to honour the flight’s arrival.

Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif pictured alongside other officials at New Gwadar International Airport on January 20, 2025. — PAA
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti walks alongside other guests at the New Gwadar International Airport — Photo by Abdullah Zehri

The New Gwadar International Airport was inaugurated during a visit by Chinese Premier Li Qiang in October 2024 and designated as an international airport on December 28, 2024. It is strategically located to enhance trade and tourism in the region.

Defence and Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif walks alongside Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti inside the New Gwadar International Airport — photo by Abdullah Zehri

Federal minister Khawaja Asif emphasized the airport’s role in boosting economic growth and regional connectivity, stating that it symbolizes Gwadar’s potential as a trade hub.

The facility is expected to serve up to 400,000 passengers annually, with future capacity projected to reach 1.6 million.

 Built with an investment of approximately $240 million, the airport features modern infrastructure capable of accommodating large aircraft and is designed to meet international standards.

Saman Siddiqui

I am a freelance journalist with a Master’s Degree in Mass Communication and an MS in Peace and Conflict Studies. Since 2006, I have been involved in various capacities within the electronic media industry. At OyeYeah, I cover diverse genres ranging from journalism and fiction to fashion, including reviews and fact-finding reports.

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