Closed for 23 years, citizens demand reopening of Muzaffarabad Airport
Kashmiri citizens urge immediate restoration as key to boosting tourism and economy
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The airport established in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), in 1987 has been closed for the last 23 years.
Citizens of Muzaffarabad have demanded immediate action for the restoration of the airport, 24NewsHD TV Channel reported on Monday.
According to the report, Muzaffarabad Airport was the only airport in the capital of Azad Kashmir, established by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority in 1987.
Initially, two flights commenced operations from Muzaffarabad Airport. In 2001, the airport was shut down due to a decrease in passenger numbers.
Following the earthquake in 2005, Muzaffarabad Airport was operationalised for relief activities, serving as a hub for helicopter services where relief supplies were delivered.
Kashmiris emphasised that the restoration of Muzaffarabad Airport is a vital need. They have called on the government of Pakistan to reopen the airport, which would facilitate the movement of tourists from both domestic and international locations.
AJK residents believed that reopening the airport would revolutionise the tourism sector.
--An Overview--
Muzaffarabad Airport, located in the capital city of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), is a small domestic airfield primarily serving the region’s administrative and logistical needs. Situated approximately 5 kilometres from the city centre, the airport lies amidst picturesque mountainous terrain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
The airport was constructed with the aim of enhancing connectivity for AJK, particularly during emergencies, and to support governmental operations. However, commercial operations at Muzaffarabad Airport have remained limited due to geographical constraints, such as the short runway and challenging topography, which restrict the operation of larger aircraft.
At present, the airport is not actively used for regular passenger flights but serves as an emergency landing site and supports occasional VIP or military operations.
Reporter: Safeer Raza