Pakistan’s New Gwadar International Airport (NGIA) is set to commence operations with flights to Muscat from January 10, 2025, the Prime Minister’s Office announced on December 30.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described NGIA as a “shining example of China-Pakistan friendship” during a high-level review meeting. He emphasized that the airport would enhance regional connectivity, create jobs, and boost economic growth.
“The New Gwadar International Airport will not only bring prosperity to the region but also create employment opportunities for thousands,” said Sharif, thanking China for its support in building a facility that meets international standards.
The meeting, attended by senior officials and ministers, emphasized NGIA’s potential to transform Gwadar into a regional economic hub, further solidifying the ties between China and Pakistan.
The $200 million Chinese-funded project is part of the broader China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a key component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
The PM also highlighted efforts to establish NGIA as a major transit hub with improved road links, particularly within Balochistan.
State-of-the-art facilities
NGIA spans the largest area among Pakistan’s airports and is equipped to handle A380 aircraft, managing up to 400,000 passengers annually.
“The Gwadar airport can handle A-380 aircraft and will be capable of accommodating 4 million passengers annually,” PM’s office added. It features modern infrastructure for cargo operations, including facilities for cold storage, warehouses, and courier services.
The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) announced plans to increase flights between Karachi and Gwadar to three times a week, while discussions with private airlines and international carriers from China, Oman, and the UAE are ongoing.
Enhanced security measures
The airport’s opening was delayed due to a security review following separatist militant attacks in Balochistan in August. Comprehensive security measures have now been implemented, with personnel from the Airports Security Force, Pakistan Customs, Anti-Narcotics Force, Federal Investigation Agency, and Border Health Services deployed at the site. The PM underscored the importance of maintaining stringent security protocols to protect the airport and its operations.