The government has launched a Rs. 180 million project to upgrade Skardu International Airport, aiming to improve air travel and boost the local economy in Gilgit-Baltistan. This step is seen as an important move to connect the region better with the rest of the country and beyond.
The upgrade project is being planned by Swiss consultancy firm Intairplan in partnership with Pakistani experts. The goal is to transform Skardu into a major hub for tourism and trade. Once the design phase is completed, construction work is expected to begin within the next year.
Officials believe that improving the airport’s facilities will make it easier for both local and international tourists to visit the scenic region. With better air connectivity, the area could see a rise in businesses, travel services, and job opportunities for locals. It will also help farmers, traders, and craftsmen reach bigger markets more easily.
Stakeholders, including regional leaders and travel industry representatives, have welcomed the move. They say it supports long-term goals like sustainable development, better infrastructure, and stronger ties between remote areas and the rest of Pakistan.
The Skardu airport upgrade is more than just a construction project—it’s part of a larger plan to unlock the full potential of Gilgit-Baltistan. By investing in modern infrastructure, the government hopes to create lasting benefits for the region’s people, economy, and environment.
This development is expected to play a key role in turning Skardu into a well-connected and thriving gateway for both tourism and trade.
