Skardu, Pakistan welcomes inaugural international flight
Skardu, a tranquil town nestled in the northern
reaches of Pakistan, achieved a momentous feat as it warmly embraced its
first-ever international flight on Monday. The historic occasion, marked with
exuberance and national pride, was commemorated as the aircraft from Dubai
touched down at Skardu International Airport, carrying 80 passengers.
Local authorities hailed this event as an
"historic" milestone. A formal announcement shared on X, formerly
known as Twitter, emphasized the newfound travel prospects that this
development ushers in, thereby enhancing the global connection of the
Gilgit-Baltistan region.
Pakistan
State Oil starts refueling facility at Skardu International Airport
The statement from the Office of the Chief
Secretary in Gilgit-Baltistan characterized the event as "a significant
stride toward promoting tourism and augmenting regional connectivity."
Onlookers on the ground recounted scenes of
grandeur. The four-and-a-half-hour journey from Dubai culminated in the
aircraft receiving a traditional water cannon salute, a gesture denoting honor
and jubilation. Adding to the resonance of the day, the pilot proudly displayed
the national flag from the cockpit window, a heartfelt tribute to Pakistan's
Independence Day.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs utilized X to
express their elation, proclaiming, "With the airport serving Skardu now,
the town opens its doors to the world as Pakistan's tourism flourishes."
Skardu, though not unfamiliar with aviation,
has primarily catered to domestic flights. Boasting one of Pakistan's
lengthiest runways, measuring around 3,600 meters (approximately 12,000 feet),
the airport's potential for international service became viable after the
establishment of a refueling facility. This advancement was made possible by
the Pakistan State Oil Company Limited, as detailed by the local publication,
Pamir Times.
This pivotal juncture promises to be a
monumental leap forward for tourism and global relationships in the region,
setting the stage for increased international integration and economic
prospects.
Source: https://ftnnews.com/