With the operationalization of the airport,
Gwadar is set to transform into an economic hub
The collaboration between China and
Pakistan in the aviation sector is exemplified by the establishment of the New
Gwadar International Airport (NGIA), which is poised to transform Gwadar into a
thriving economic hub and tourist destination upon its expected completion in
September 2023, stated aviation consultant Muhammad Afsar Malik. Afsar Malik
emphasized that the NGIA will be the largest airport in Pakistan once it
becomes operational. Test flights have already been conducted at the NGIA in
March 2023, and the main terminal building is currently undergoing installation
of indoor mechanical and electrical equipment and decorations. The construction
work on the runway, taxiway, service lanes, and navigational lighting system
has also been completed.
With its modern design and infrastructure,
the NGIA is estimated to be the largest airport in Pakistan, capable of
accommodating A380 aircraft. Afsar Malik highlighted the potential and capacity
of the NGIA, stating that it will not only drive the development of Gwadar but
also serve as a gateway for boosting trade between Pakistan and China.
Furthermore, the NGIA will enhance regional trade and connectivity, acting as a
leading airport for Pakistan and the region, facilitating connectivity and
trade with neighboring countries such as Afghanistan, Iran, China, Kazakhstan,
Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
The NGIA serves as a prominent example of
the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project and the collaboration
between China and Pakistan in the aviation sector. According to a senior
official from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCCA), the NGIA will
accommodate Boeing 747 and other Airbus aircraft, and flights to various
destinations including India, Afghanistan, Iran, China, the Middle East, and
Central Asian countries will be operated from this airport. The NGIA boasts
advanced facilities, allowing four planes to land simultaneously—a feature not
currently available at any other airport in the country. The airport is equipped
with 39 hold-and-hang baggage scanning machines and state-of-the-art security
arrangements to ensure passengers' convenience and fool-proof security. The
surrounding areas of the NGIA have been declared special security zones with
comprehensive security measures in place. Chinese authorities are also
assisting in conducting research to ensure an environmentally friendly setting
around the NGIA. The runway at the airport spans a length of 3,658 meters and
has a width of 75 meters to accommodate large aircraft.
Additionally, the NGIA includes maintenance
facilities for aircraft. As Gwadar is set to become a major global trade hub
due to the CPEC projects, all developments are carried out in accordance with
international standards.
The NGIA is expected to create employment
opportunities for more than 3,000 people while fostering trade, economic
activities, and tourism in Gwadar. The city's unique marine landscape adds to
its appeal and attractiveness.
The airport project has been financed by the Chinese government as part of the CPEC initiative, with an additional contribution of $17.6 million from the Sultanate of Oman. The construction project, valued at $246 million, has been undertaken by Chinese Communication Construction Company (CCC), and upon completion, the NGIA will be operated and managed by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA).
Source: nation.com.pk