PIA set to launch international flights from Pakistan’s new Gwadar airport
A-380 ready facility designed to handle four million passengers
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to make history by launching international flight operations from the New Gwadar International Airport (NGIA) today (January 10, 2025).
The first flight will connect Gwadar to Muscat, Oman, with services scheduled thrice weekly.
This milestone marks a new chapter in Gwadar’s transformation into a global aviation and trade hub.
Domestic operations
PIA also plans to extend its domestic operations from NGIA, while discussions are underway with private airlines from Oman, China, and the UAE to start additional international flights. Efforts are also being made to establish banking facilities and ATMs at the airport to cater to passenger needs.
While the spotlight is on international operations, NGIA’s initial domestic flight faced an unexpected challenge. PIA flight PK-503, scheduled to inaugurate the airport with a Karachi-Gwadar route, experienced an engine fault shortly after takeoff on January 1.
The aircraft returned safely to Karachi, and all passengers were unharmed. The incident, though unfortunate, did not deter the preparations for international operations.
New Gwadar International Airport
Situated 14 km north of Gwadar, NGIA serves as a vital component of CPEC, aiming to bolster trade and tourism in the region. Its strategic location positions it as a key transit point linking Pakistan with global markets.
Completed under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), NGIA represents a $246 million investment aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and fostering economic integration. The airport is Pakistan’s largest in terms of area and is equipped to handle modern wide-body aircraft, including the Airbus A-380.
With an annual capacity to manage four million passengers, NGIA is poised to play a critical role in connecting Pakistan with the Middle East, Central Asia, and beyond.
The airport is equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure, including modern terminals, advanced security systems, and facilities for customs, immigration, and health checks.
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has issued the aerodrome certification, enabling NGIA to receive international flights. Key personnel from the Airport Security Force (ASF), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and Pakistan Customs are already deployed to ensure smooth operations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while chairing a high-level meeting, emphasised the significance of NGIA as a “gift from China” and a symbol of enduring friendship. He urged the authorities to expedite the second phase of the East-Bay Expressway project, which will further improve road connectivity to the airport. The first phase of the expressway has already been completed, ensuring a seamless link between the airport and Gwadar city.