The New Gwadar International Airport (NGIA) has significantly expanded its flight operations since its commercial launch on January 20, 2025. Contrary to recent reports that claimed the airport was not operational, officials have confirmed that NGIA is fully functional and growing as a crucial regional hub.
Initially, Gwadar had only three flights per week. Following the commencement of NGIA’s commercial operations, this number has increased to five weekly flights. The updated schedule includes flights connecting Karachi to Gwadar on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Flights from Gwadar to Muscat are available on Mondays and Fridays.
Read more: Gwadar New Airport to become Operational from Jan 20
This expansion is seen as a positive step for the region. Private airlines such as Fly Jinnah, Air Sial, Air Blue, and Serene Air are already applying to start flights to Gwadar. Air Sial, in particular, has praised the airport’s attractive incentives. These include waivers on landing, parking, and housing charges for airlines operating at the airport.
Gwadar Airport Manager, Khalid Kakar, clarified the situation. He directly addressed false claims in the AP report that the airport was not operational. He emphasized that they created all posts at the airport for the people of Balochistan, as per the regulations, and hired no outsiders.”AP should have conducted proper research and spoken to the relevant authorities before publishing such misleading information,” Kakar said.
The NGIA, which spans over 4,300 acres, is Pakistan’s second-largest airport and can accommodate a range of aircraft, including ATR 72, Boeing B-737, Airbus A-380, and Boeing B-747. Its expansion represents a key development in Gwadar’s emergence as an international trade and connectivity hub. The successful landing of PIA flight PK-503 from Karachi marked the beginning of NGIA’s commercial operations. This was a milestone in the region’s growth.
As airlines increase flights and show growing interest, the New Gwadar International Airport will drive Balochistan’s economic development. It will create jobs and strengthen the region’s infrastructure. The airport is also expected to connect Pakistan to global markets more effectively. This will further solidify Gwadar’s position as an important trade and transit point.
