New Gwadar International Airport (GWD)

Common Complaints

• Lack of Flights and Passengers: The most significant complaint is the near-total absence of commercial flights and passengers, leading to its designation as a "ghost airport" or "flight to nowhere".
• Local Grievances and Exclusion: There is widespread discontent among locals in Gwadar who feel excluded from the project's benefits, citing a lack of job opportunities for residents and a perception that the airport primarily serves Chinese interests rather than the local population.
• Inadequate Supporting Infrastructure in Gwadar City: The city of Gwadar itself reportedly lacks a stable power supply (relying on neighboring Iran or solar panels) and sufficient clean water, hindering its development as a commercial hub.
• Poor Transportation Connections: While an East Bay Expressway links the airport to Gwadar City and the national highway, reliable road and rail links connecting Gwadar with the rest of the country are still missing.
• Security Concerns: The Balochistan province, where Gwadar is located, has a history of separatist conflict and security concerns, which has reportedly prevented new commercial activity vital for the airport's success.

In summary, New Gwadar International Airport is a state-of-the-art facility with impressive modern infrastructure, but it currently suffers from a severe lack of commercial activity and passenger traffic. While its design and potential are lauded, actual traveler experiences are minimal, overshadowed by significant local grievances and broader issues concerning regional development and security. The airport's future success is contingent on addressing these underlying challenges and stimulating substantial commercial and passenger demand.