The first international flight from Dubai landed at the Skardu International Airport on Monday which is being described as a “gift” to Gilgit Baltistan.

“History in its making ! First international flight to Skardu landing safely is indeed a historic moment,” the Office of the G-B Chief Secretary. “It opens up new possibilities for travel and connects Skardu with the rest of the world.”

The international flight of Pakistan International Airlines, PK234, took off from Dubai with 80 passengers on board and landed at the Skardu International Airport.

The flight received a water cannon salute upon landing at the airport while passengers were presented with bouquets of flowers.

The chief secretary’s office described it as a “great step” towards promoting tourism and enhancing the region’s connectivity.

The PIA took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to announce the development with a caption that “Skardu is now open to the world!”

Pakistan’s Ambassador to United Arab Emirates Faisal Niaz Tirmizi expressed joy at the development on the 76th Independence Day of Pakistan.

In a message on social media, he encouraged travellers to visit the scenic region and share Pakistan’s beauty through visual stories.

Ambassador Tirmizi went on to say that the event marked a significant step towards promoting tourism and strengthening international connections.

The Civil Aviation Authority termed it a “momentous occasion” considering its “unique location 7,500 feet above sea level”.

The Skardu airport is the only one in northern Pakistan that can accommodate larger airplanes, as the runways at both Gilgit and Chitral airports are too short for long-haul flights to land there.