Islamabad: Pakistan expressed joy as its largest international airport, entirely funded and built by ally China, in volatile Balochistan official started operations. Beijing has called the airport a donation to Pakistan.
The Gwadar International Airport and the Gwadar Deep Sea Port, constructed in the province as part of the USD 42 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, are regarded by both countries as crucial for enhancing trade and regional connectivity.
Announcing the airport operations, The Global Times, the mouth-piece of China’s ruling Communist Party, said in a post on X: “The New Gwadar International Airport, a donation by China, officially commenced operations on Monday. The first flight PIA503 of Pakistan International Airlines from Karachi, arrived at the newly inaugurated airport.
The New Gwadar International Airport, a donation by China, officially commenced operations on Monday. The first flight PIA503 of Pakistan International Airlines from Karachi, arrived at the newly inaugurated airport. pic.twitter.com/GhtjklJhRu
— Global Times (@globaltimesnews) January 20, 2025
The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight PK 503 became the first commercial aircraft to land at the newly inaugurated Gwadar International Airport, carrying commercial passengers and high-ranking officials.
The flight, which departed from Karachi after a 45-minute delay, landed in Gwadar following a journey of one hour and ten minutes.
Significance of Pakistan’ Gwadar airport
Both China and Pakistan envision Gwadar, with its deep sea port and international airport, as a key hub for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and an essential interchange for a modern Silk Route.
Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, the airport is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing regional connectivity and bolstering Pakistan’s position in global trade and infrastructure. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the commencement of flight operations, describing it as a significant milestone in transforming Gwadar into a critical link between Central and Eastern Asia, the Middle East, and Gulf nations.
Recognising China’s vital role in Pakistan’s development, he hailed the state-of-the-art Gwadar International Airport as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations.
Covering a massive 430 acres, it is Pakistan’s largest international airport by land area. Its runway is designed to accommodate large aircraft, including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747.
Completed in December 2024, the airport is now fully operational for both domestic and international flights. Built at an estimated cost of Rs 50 billion, its symbolic inauguration was conducted by former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on 14 October 2024.
