Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has resumed flights to Saidu Sharif (Swat) from Islamabad and Lahore after a hiatus of 17 years.
The first flight of PIA PK-650 departed from the capital city for Saidu Sharif on Friday.
The flight operation at Saidu Sharif airport resumed today after seventeen years.#PIA pic.twitter.com/ReL9VlQ0lT
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) March 26, 2021
As per Federal Minister for Aviation Ghulam Sarwar Khan, the resumption of commercial flights was a landmark for people of Malakand division that would further open up the entire Swat district for tourism, adventure, and mountain sports.
“The resumption of flight operation would help bolster exports, fruits, vegetables, carpet, handicrafts, and woolen industries”, he added while addressing the inauguration function.
Ghulam Sarwar also thanked Prime Minister Imran Khan and KP Chief Minister Mahmood Khan on the inauguration of the flight operation and expressed hope that people of Malakand would take full advantage of the facility.
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The national flag carrier PIA will operate two flights to Swat from Lahore and Islamabad in a week.
PIA returns to Saidu Sharif after a gap of 17 years! 2 flights a week, at special introductory fares. #PIA pic.twitter.com/3Od67Y2Hip
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) March 26, 2021
The Saidu Sharif airport had been non-operational since 2004 as the tourism spot was hit by terrorism.
PIA spokesperson said flights from Lahore to Skardu and Lahore to Gilgit are on the cards too.