Skardu's first global flight takes off for Dubai
The Aviation Division said that work on converting Skardu Airport to international airport was almost complete and the open-ing had been scheduled for August 14, 2021. PHOTO: FILE
In a significant development for tourism in Pakistan's northern region, the first international flight departed from Skardu Airport on Tuesday.
Flight PK-211 departed for Dubai with 160 passengers on board, the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) officials confirmed.
The milestone came just eight days after the inaugural direct international flight from Dubai to Skardu landed on Aug 14. The establishment of direct flights between these two cities will make Pakistan's mountainous Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) region, home to Skardu, more accessible to foreign travellers.
Read 'Historic': First international flight lands at Skardu airport
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) staff at the airport efficiently handled the passengers' immigration process, contributing to a seamless travel experience. Passengers reportedly expressed satisfaction with the well-organised arrangements.
The Skardu International Airport, which was inaugurated in Dec 2021, has played a pivotal role in facilitating this new route.
The launch of international flights from Skardu signifies a major step forward for the country’s tourism industry and opens up new opportunities for travellers looking to explore G-B.