China-Aided New Gwadar International Airport Begins Flight Tests

Gwadar, The Gulf Observer: The China-aided New Gwadar International Airport has commenced a five-day flight test starting Tuesday, marking a crucial step towards the project’s completion, according to the airport’s project management team.

Ding Kan, head of the project management team, informed media that the flight tests are being conducted by Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Located in the southwestern port city of Gwadar, the airport is being constructed under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

“The main purpose of the activity is to check the standardization and safety of the project’s navigation facilities, navigational aids, flight procedures, and road surface performance,” Ding stated. He emphasized that the tests are a pivotal milestone, ensuring the safety and quality of flights at the new airport.

Following the completion of these flight tests, the project will enter its final sprint stage, with the airport expected to be completed and handed over to local authorities in 2024.

Construction of the 4F-class airport began in October 2019 and is one of the flagship projects of the CPEC. Upon completion, the New Gwadar International Airport is set to become a modern landmark in Gwadar, significantly improving the infrastructural conditions of the port city and laying a strong foundation for its future development.