The unveiling of the Gwadar International Airport, a key infrastructure project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), has been delayed another year.
The local news channel, ARY News, referring to credible sources of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), claimed the shift in the inauguration schedule. Originally set for September 2023, the airport’s unveiling has been postponed due to technical complications.
Reports suggest that the delay in shipping airport and technical apparatus from China has been a major factor. These vital components, transported by sea, are set to reach Gwadar within the current month.
Chinese officials have now earmarked June 2024 for the airport’s official launch to finalize all non-operational tasks by the subsequent year.
Insights into the New Airport
Situated 26 km northeast of the current Gwadar airport, the novel facility covers a sprawling 3,000-acre area generously allocated by the Pakistani government. Gwadar Airport, following in the footsteps of the new Islamabad Airport, stands out as Pakistan’s second greenfield airport.
Designed to accommodate a diverse range of aircraft, the airport will host ATR 72, Airbus (A-300), Boeing (B-737), and Boeing (B-747), catering to both domestic and international flights.
