Parachinar Airport in the Kurram district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which had remained inactive for a long period, has been successfully restored to operational status, according to official sources.
The revival of the airport has been made possible through coordinated efforts by the Pakistan Army, the Frontier Works Organization (FWO), and the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA). Authorities described the development as a significant step toward improving regional connectivity and infrastructure.
As part of the reopening process, the Pakistan Army Aviation conducted operational landing and take-off trials on April 26 to assess the runway’s functionality and overall readiness. These trials were aimed at ensuring that the airport meets required safety and operational standards before regular flight operations resume.
According to sources, a total of six successful landing and take-off trials were carried out during the evaluation process. These tests were designed to thoroughly examine runway conditions, navigation support, and operational safety procedures.
Officials confirmed that the runway and related facilities were found to be in compliance with professional aviation standards and high-level safety requirements. The positive assessment indicates that the airport is now capable of supporting flight operations under controlled conditions.
The restoration of Parachinar Airport is expected to play an important role in improving accessibility to the remote and strategically important Kurram region. It may also facilitate faster transportation of passengers, medical supplies, and essential goods, particularly in emergencies.
Local residents and stakeholders have long emphasized the need for functional air connectivity in the area due to its challenging terrain and limited road access. The reopening of the airport is therefore being viewed as a positive development for both civilian and administrative purposes.
Security and logistical arrangements were also closely monitored during the trials, given the region’s sensitive location near the border areas. Authorities ensured that all necessary protocols were followed to guarantee safe operations.
In conclusion, the successful restoration of Parachinar Airport marks an important milestone in regional infrastructure development. With operational trials completed successfully, the airport is now positioned to support future air services, subject to final approvals and scheduling by relevant aviation authorities.
