Skardu Airport’s International Flights Open New Doors for Tourism

Skardu: Skardu International Airport has undergone a major transformation from a regional airport into an international aviation facility, improving access to Gilgit-Baltistan and its famous mountain destinations.The airport received international status in December 2021, while its first direct international flight from Dubai landed on August 14, 2023. Operated by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), flight PK-234 brought 79 passengers to Skardu.International connectivity received another boost in May 2025 when PIA announced the resumption of direct flights between Dubai and Skardu, offering overseas travellers a more convenient route to northern Pakistan.The airport also serves domestic routes connecting Skardu with major Pakistani cities, helping tourists reach the Karakoram region without lengthy road journeys.Skardu is an important gateway to destinations such as Shigar, Khaplu and trekking routes leading towards some of the world’s highest mountains.The development of international flight facilities is expected to support tourism, hotels, local transport and other businesses across Gilgit-Baltistan.However, international airport status does not mean that regular flights operate to every foreign destination. Currently listed flight schedules do not confirm an active year-round international route from Skardu, and flight availability remains dependent on airline schedules and weather conditions.