The newly established Gwadar International Airport commenced its international operations on Friday, marking a significant milestone with an inaugural flight by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) carrying 39 passengers to Muscat, Oman.
The airport, built with a $246 million investment in collaboration with China, became operational after months of delays. Authorities initially postponed its opening for a comprehensive security review following attacks by separatist militants in Balochistan in August 2024. The facility was scheduled to open on January 10, but its launch was deferred until this week.
A PIA official confirmed the inaugural international flight, adding that the airline plans to operate one weekly flight to Muscat for now. “This milestone demonstrates our commitment to expanding air operations across the country in line with national aspirations and public needs,” PIA stated.
Earlier this week, Defence and Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif formally inaugurated the airport by receiving its first domestic flight from Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport. The airport covers an area of 430 acres, located 26 kilometers from Gurandani, and features a single runway measuring 3,658 meters in length and 75 meters in width, capable of accommodating large aircraft.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had symbolically inaugurated the airport on October 14, 2024, but operational activities officially began earlier this week. This development positions Gwadar as a growing hub for both domestic and international aviation, boosting regional connectivity and economic activity in Pakistan.
