The Skardu International Airport’s newly operational runway 14R/32L was inaugurated by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on Sunday. Air Blue’s Airbus A-320 made the first successful landing at 8.51 am, marking a significant milestone. While the CAA announced the airport’s readiness for internal flights the next day, this expansion allows the picturesque valley airport to handle international flights.

Previously, the airport served flights primarily to Islamabad and other domestic destinations such as Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, Sialkot, and Karachi. However, the expansion project’s completion now enables the airport to accommodate wide-body jets like the Airbus A320, positioning it as the sole airport in the northern region with this capacity.

Read more : Skardu First International Flight from Dubai on Independence Day

Earlier classified as ‘international,’ the airport faced limitations due to fuel-related issues, preventing the operation of international flights. However, the CAA has resolved these concerns, ensuring the availability of refueling facilities for incoming and outgoing international flights, a significant enhancement for the airport’s capabilities.