Skardu Airport upgrade aims to enhance aviation safety

Skardu: A proposed modernization project for Skardu Airport is expected to significantly improve aviation safety, operational efficiency, and passenger capacity at one of the world’s most challenging high-altitude airports. The upgrade plan includes a new Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower, a modern passenger terminal, a dedicated fire station, and a cargo complex to support growing travel and logistics demand in Gilgit-Baltistan. Due to its mountainous surroundings, Skardu Airport requires highly precise flight operations, similar to airports such as Lukla in Nepal and Paro in Bhutan. Enhanced infrastructure could strengthen tourism, improve regional connectivity, and support economic activity across northern Pakistan. Can the modernization of Skardu Airport unlock greater investment and tourism potential in Gilgit-Baltistan?