PIA’s First Commercial Flight Lands at New Gwadar International Airport

A historic moment unfolded as a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight successfully landed at Gwadar International Airport, marking the arrival of the first commercial aircraft at the newly inaugurated facility.

According to a Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA) official, flight PK-503 departed from Karachi at 9:50 AM and touched down at 11:15 AM, carrying 46 passengers. Defence and Aviation Minister Khawaja Asif, along with Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, warmly received the passengers upon arrival.

Speaking at the event, Minister Khawaja Asif highlighted the airport’s strategic role in boosting economic activity, expanding regional tourism, and enhancing global connectivity. As part of the celebrations, he also awarded certificates and shields to individuals who contributed to the airport’s success.

The inaugural flight was welcomed with a traditional water salute, signifying the airport’s operational milestone.

Built with a $230 million grant from China, the state-of-the-art Gwadar International Airport boasts a 3,648-meter runway and a 14,000-square-meter passenger terminal. Spanning 4,300 acres, the facility has an annual passenger capacity of 400,000, with the potential to scale up to 1.6 million.

Designed to accommodate large aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380, the airport is equipped with cutting-edge air traffic control systems, advanced security measures, and key infrastructure, including a community hospital and utility services.