The long-awaited New Gwadar International Airport has officially opened today, marking a milestone in Pakistan’s infrastructure development under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This state-of-the-art airport is poised to boost regional connectivity and economic growth. However, the inaugural flight from Karachi to the New Gwadar Airport, PK 503, has experienced a slight delay.
Delayed Departure of First Flight from Karachi
The first flight to land at the New Gwadar International Airport is Pakistan International Airlines’ flight PK 503, scheduled to depart from Karachi. Originally planned for 9:14 AM, the flight’s departure has been delayed by 45 minutes, with the new departure time set at 10:00 AM. This slight delay comes as a part of the excitement surrounding the first commercial flight to this much-anticipated airport.
Welcoming Ceremony at Gwadar Airport
Upon arrival at the New Gwadar International Airport, flight PK 503 will be greeted with a traditional water salute as part of the inauguration ceremony. Important figures such as Governor Sheikh Jafar Khan Mandokhel, Chief Minister of Balochistan Sardar Jam Kamal Khan, Federal Minister Khawaja Asif, and key Chinese officials will be present to welcome the passengers and celebrate the occasion.
A vibrant and colorful ceremony is also being held to mark the beginning of a new era in Gwadar Airport’s operations, with regional and international dignitaries in attendance.
New Gwadar Airport Capacity and Features
The New Gwadar Airport is spread across 430 acres, making it the largest airport in Pakistan by area. Located 26 kilometers from the city of Gwadar, in the Gundani area, the airport features a single runway that is 3,658 meters long and 75 meters wide, which is capable of accommodating some of the world’s largest aircraft, including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747.
With an estimated cost of 50 billion rupees, the airport represents a major leap in Pakistan’s aviation and economic landscape, providing a critical link to the global market. This development also promises to transform Gwadar into a regional hub for both trade and tourism.
While the symbolic inauguration of the New Gwadar International Airport took place on October 14, 2024, with the presence of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, regular flights are now set to begin. This marks the culmination of years of planning and construction as part of the CPEC initiative.
The New Gwadar Airport is expected to be a game-changer for the region, improving access for both passengers and cargo. As a part of Pakistan’s vision for development, it will play a pivotal role in improving trade links and economic cooperation with neighboring countries and beyond.
The opening of the New Gwadar International Airport is a major milestone for Gwadar and Pakistan. With its state-of-the-art facilities and strategic location, the airport will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, not just for Gwadar, but for the entire region. As regular flights take off, the New Gwadar Airport is set to become a central hub for both domestic and international travel.
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