Gwadar International Airport: Pioneering a new era of trade and connectivity

The strategic evolution of Gwadar has long been a subject of geopolitical and economic significance. With its deep-sea port positioned at the crossroads of major global trade routes, the city has been steadily transforming into a linchpin of regional commerce. Now, with the operationalisation of the New Gwadar International Airport (NGIAP) on January 20, 2025, this transformation has reached a pivotal moment.

A flagship project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), NGIAP is more than an infrastructure milestone - it is a statement of intent. Designed to integrate Gwadar into the global aviation network, the airport’s impact is expected to ripple across multiple sectors, from trade and logistics to tourism and investment.

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According to Saif Ullah, Additional Director of Public Relations at the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), NGIAP is set to redefine regional connectivity. “This airport is not just about passenger traffic - it is a strategic gateway that will enhance economic mobility, attract investment, and strengthen Pakistan’s role in global commerce,” he explains.

Infrastructure Built for the Future

Spanning 4,300 acres, NGIAP is Pakistan’s largest airport by land area and one of the most ambitious aviation projects undertaken in recent years. The terminal building, covering 15,000 square meters, is designed to handle 1.6 million passengers annually, with an initial capacity of 400,000 passengers per year.

Since its inauguration, the airport has already accommodated 22 international and 39 domestic flights, signalling a rapid integration into the aviation network. In the past month alone, private media reports indicate that 42 flights were operated, serving over 1,500 passengers - a strong indication of growing demand.

But NGIAP’s significance extends far beyond commercial aviation. As a logistics and trade hub, its proximity to Gwadar Port, one of the deepest seaports in the world, positions it as a critical enabler of maritime and air trade linkages. “The synergy between Gwadar Port and NGIAP will make this region a major node in global supply chains,” says Saif Ullah.

The airport’s economic impact is already evident. Employment opportunities for the local population have surged, with skilled and unskilled laborers finding work across multiple sectors - airport operations, hospitality, and transport. Moreover, with increasing flight operations and a bustling atmosphere of passengers, businesspeople, and traders, NGIAP is fostering a climate of commercial optimism. “The ripple effect of this airport will be felt in every sector - real estate, tourism, logistics, and retail,” Saif Ullah notes.

While NGIAP is already operational, further enhancements are on the horizon. Discussions are underway to expand cargo handling facilities, optimise air traffic operations, and attract international carriers to establish direct routes to key Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Chinese destinations.

At Allama Iqbal International Airport (AIIAP) in Lahore, a transformative expansion is underway. With a completion target of September 2026, the project includes an additional 350,000 square feet of terminal space, an apron expansion with two new bays for large aircraft, upgraded access roads, and a new sewage treatment plant.

The expansion is set to increase AIIAP’s passenger capacity to 12 million annually, ensuring that Lahore remains a critical gateway for international and domestic travelers. Importantly, flight operations will remain uninterrupted, as the new infrastructure is being constructed alongside the existing terminal before integration.

“This project is designed to accommodate growth for the next 20 years, ensuring Lahore remains a key hub in Pakistan’s aviation sector,” explains Saif Ullah.

Islamabad International Airport is embracing cutting-edge Electronic Gates (e-Gates) to modernise Automated Border Control systems. This initiative, part of a broader technological overhaul at Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports, is expected to be completed by January 2026.

“The introduction of e-Gates will streamline immigration procedures, reducing processing time, enhancing security, and improving the overall passenger experience,” Saif Ullah says. The move aligns Pakistan’s aviation sector with global standards, ensuring seamless entry and exit for travelers, while also supporting business and tourism growth.

At Jinnah International Airport (JIAP) in Karachi, a Rs8.3 billion runway reconstruction project is in full swing. Launched on July 4, 2024, the project involves the complete reconstruction and extension of Runway 07L/25R, allowing it to accommodate ICAO Category 4F aircraft, including the Airbus A380.

The 18-month initiative, slated for completion by January 2026, includes:

Reconstruction of Taxiway Golf and construction of Taxiway Quebec

Installation of an advanced LED Category-I Airfield Lighting System

Integration of a centralised Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System (ALCMS)

“These upgrades will ensure safe and efficient flight operations for the next 25–30 years, significantly enhancing runway capacity and operational efficiency,” says Saif Ullah. The improvements will boost tourism, employment, and aviation revenues, reinforcing Karachi’s status as Pakistan’s most critical aviation hub.

The upgradation of Farooq Ahmed Khan Leghari Airport marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s regional aviation infrastructure. By expanding the runway, enhancing night operations, and improving overall airport facilities, this project will unlock new economic and travel opportunities for Dera Ghazi Khan and surrounding regions. The ability to accommodate larger aircraft such as the A320 will attract new airlines, improve connectivity for passengers, and stimulate trade and tourism. This initiative reflects Pakistan’s commitment to modernising its aviation sector, ensuring that regional airports play a vital role in national economic growth and development.

As Pakistan undertakes an ambitious airport modernisation agenda, the developments at Gwadar, Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi airports reflect a broader vision - one that prioritises connectivity, economic growth, and technological advancement. With Gwadar International Airport leading this transformation, the country’s aviation sector is entering a new era - one defined by strategic infrastructure, enhanced operational efficiency, and an increasingly vital role in global trade and commerce.

Sana Eqbal

Staff Writer

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sana@khaleejtimes.com

Sana Eqbal is a journalist with over 10 years of experience and a media strategist specialising in corporate communications, public relations, digital media, and content management.