The Skardu International Airport, also known as Skardu Airport, serves the city of Skardu & Gilgit in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. Located at one of the world’s highest airports, this airport is used primarily for flights to destinations throughout Pakistan and some international flights to destinations.
The airport handled more than 60,871 passengers in the previous year. This number contains many of whom were tourists who came to explore the region’s mountainous beauty and its unparalleled skiing destinations.
If you’re travelling to Skardu International Airport, or are thinking about doing so soon, you’ll want to read this guide that answers all your questions about the airport itself and some of the services it offers travellers.
Location Of Skardu International Airport
Located about 18 kilometres northwest of the main city, Skardu Airport has become an international airport. For those who have already planned a trip to Skardu, you won’t have to worry about transportation since the majority of hotels provide shuttle service to and from the airport. If you don’t have a car or don’t want to take a taxi, you can hire one after you get to the airport.
Skardu Airport Flights Schedule
The schedule of Skardu Airport Flights depends on the weather during the season. Flights are only operated during daylight hours and when there is no wind. As passengers arrive at Skardu Airport, they are treated to incredible views of the Indus River and the snowcapped mountains that surround it.
At Skardu airport, there are two runways, one abandoned and one operational. The operational runway has a PCN of 40 and is 12000 feet long. The apron can accommodate up to three B737s. In order to cater to the needs of passengers, Skardu airport is equipped with spacious arrivals, departures, and VIP lounges.
In addition to international flights, Skardu Airport KDU carries out domestic flights. There were thousands of passengers travelling through Skardu International Airport each year.
Flights Information from Skardu Airport to Islamabad International Airport
Islamabad International Airport (ISB) is about an hour’s drive from Skardu Airport (KDU). In general, there is only one flight every day or 2 flights per week between Skardu Airport (KDU) and Islamabad Airport (IAF).
There is a quite popular route between Skardu Airport (KDU) and Islamabad International Airport (ISB). Flights to this route are most expensive when departure times and holidays are not taken into account. There are 75 flights operated by Pakistan International Airlines per month, which makes it one of the most popular airlines.
Flights Information from Skardu Airport to Jinnah International Airport Karachi
In order to reach Jinnah International Airport (KHI) from Skardu Airport (KDU), you need to travel for approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Jinnah International Airport (KHI) has around 1 flight per day from Skardu Airport (KDU). The earliest departure from Skardu Airport is at 9:00, and the earliest arrival is at 11:15 at Jinnah International Airport.
Flights Information from Skardu Airport to Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore
Getting from Skardu Airport (KDU) to Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE), it takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. In total, there is approximately 1 daily flight between Skardu Airport (KDU) and Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE). In the early morning flight, Skardu Airport departs at 9:50 and arrives at Allama Iqbal International Airport at 11:10.
Skardu Airport International Flights Information
First foreign passengers were handled at Skardu International Airport, which was recently opened. The airport was upgraded from operating only domestic flights to international flights on December 2, 2021.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority, Skardu is scheduled to receive a chartered international flight from Munich, Germany, on May 13, 2022. The flight took off from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 16, 2022. Skardu airport international flights will be soon available.
Weather Conditions at Skardu Internation Airport
During the summer in Skardu airport, the weather is warm, dry, and clear. And during the winter, it can be freezing, snowy, and partly cloudy. Temperatures range between 17°F and 86°F throughout the year, and rarely fall below 6°F or rise above 92°F.
Facilities at Skardu International Airport
Compared to other airports, Skardu Airport is relatively small in size, yet has all the basic facilities necessary for a comfortable travel experience.
There is a secluded VIP lounge, spacious arrival, and departure lounges, and a spacious park to ensure hustle-free and quality travel.
Furthermore, there is a coffee machine and a bathroom available to you. However, you need to book your ticket well in advance because the flights are limited and only run once a week. Don’t forget to arrive at Skardu airport at least half an hour early as well.
Some Common FAQs about Skardu International Airport
Here are some common faqs about Sakardu international airport that you should know before you plan to visit the area by area.
Where Is Skardu Airport?
Skardu airport is located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. The closest city to the airport is Skardu. There is a distance of 11 miles in the direction of the northwest the city. The airport is situated at an elevation of 7316 ft above sea level.
When Did Skardu Airport Become Skardu International Airport?
Following upgrades and re-inauguration as an international airport, Skardu Airport became Gilgit-Baltistan’s tourism hub on 2 December 2021.
What Is The Code Of Skardu International Airport?
Each airport in the world is assigned a unique code by the International Airport Transport Association, more commonly known as IATA. Skardu Airport is coded as KDU by IATA.
Additionally, the International Civil Aviation Organization, or ICAO, provides airports with unique codes in order to facilitate their operations. Skardu International Airport’s ICAO code is OPSD.
Where Can I Go From Skardu Airport?
Skardu airport is your gateway to the picturesque Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. From here, you can fly to several domestic and international destinations. Plus, the Skardu international airport is conveniently located near many of the region’s top attractions.
How Do I Get To Skardu International Airport?
Skardu International Airport is located in the Northern Areas of Pakistan. The best way to get there is by flying into Islamabad and then reaching the airport. The flight from Islamabad to Skardu takes about 45.
Once you land at Skardu International Airport, you can either rent a car or take a taxi to your destination. Keep in mind that due to the terrain and lack of public transportation options outside of town, it may be difficult for some travelers to reach destinations outside of town on their own.
Are There Hotels Near The Skardu International Airport?
There are plenty of hotels near the airport to choose from whether you’re looking for a luxurious or more budget-friendly option. The Local Homes X Skardu is located just 1 KM away from the airport and offers stunning views of the cityscape.
For a more affordable option, the Rafsal Hotel is also nearby. It provides comfortable accommodations at a fraction of the price. No matter what your budget is, there’s sure to be a hotel near the Skardu International Airport that’s perfect for you.
How Long Does It Take To Reach The City Center By Car?
Skardu International Airport is located about 35 minutes away from the city center of Skardu. The journey by car takes around 20 minutes in good weather conditions. However, the road is often blocked by landslides during the rainy season. So it’s best to check the weather forecast before making travel plans.
What Should I See In The Area Surrounding The Skardu Airport?
There are plenty of things to see and do in the area surrounding the Skardu International Airport. For starters, you can explore the stunning landscapes of the Baltoro Glacier or the Nanga Parbat massif.
Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more active, you can go hiking or mountaineering in the scenic region. No matter your interests, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful part of the world.
What Are The Weather Conditions Like There In Summer?
Skardu International Airport is located in the beautiful town of Skardu, which is nestled in the Himalayan Mountains. The weather conditions are perfect for flying throughout the summer months, with mild temperatures and little to no precipitation.
The Skardu airport itself is relatively small. But it is well-equipped to handle both domestic and international flights. In terms of location, Skardu International Airport is about a four minutes drive from Skardu city, making it easily accessible for those looking to explore this stunning region of Pakistan.
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