Quetta Airport Wins International Engineering Award
You must have heard about airports in big cities getting new updates, but this time something really special happened in Quetta. Yes, Quetta Airport wins international engineering award, and it’s a proud moment for all of Pakistan.
This award is not just any award. It is a big achievement because it shows how strong, smart, and modern our engineers have become. A small city like Quetta has now made a name in the Asia-Pacific region by building one of the strongest and longest runways in this part of the world. And the most amazing thing? The whole runway was built without even closing the airport.
This news is being talked about on social media, TV, and even in schools. Everyone is happy because it proves that Pakistan’s infrastructure, especially in aviation, is getting better day by day.
What Makes Quetta Airport So Special?
Quetta International Airport is one of the most important airports in Balochistan. It connects Quetta with other big cities of Pakistan like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, and also helps people travel abroad.
Recently, a big project was completed at this airport — the construction of a brand new runway. This was not an easy task. The runway was built at a cost of around PKR 5 billion, and the most surprising part is that the airport stayed open for flights during the whole construction. ✨
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) handled this mega project with great planning and hard work. Engineers made sure everything was safe, strong, and up to international standards. This is one reason why the project was given an Engineering Excellence Award by FIDIC Asia Pacific, a well-known international organization.
Quick Facts: Quetta Runway Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | Quetta International Airport |
| Project Type | New Runway Construction |
| Project Cost | PKR 5 Billion |
| Handled By | Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority |
| Runway Status | Built Without Closing the Airport |
| Award Won | FIDIC Asia Pacific Engineering Excellence Award |
| Runway Strength & Length | Among the Longest & Strongest in the Region |
Why Did Quetta Airport Win the International Award?
The award was given by FIDIC Asia Pacific, which stands for the International Federation of Consulting Engineers. It is one of the world’s top organizations that checks and rewards high-quality engineering projects.
This year, the new runway at Quetta International Airport caught their attention. The project was chosen for the Engineering Excellence Award 2024 because it met all the top standards in construction, safety, and smart design.
What made the project special?
- The airport stayed open while construction was happening.
- It used modern technology and smart planning.
- The runway quality was better than many others in the region.
- It helped improve Pakistan’s civil aviation infrastructure.
The FIDIC team also looked at how the project helped the local community, environment, and future travel needs. This made Quetta’s runway stand out from other airport development projects around the world.
What is FIDIC?
FIDIC is a global group that supports engineers, consultants, and contractors. Every year, they give awards to projects that show:
- Great technical skill
- Strong management
- Positive impact on society
So, winning this award means that Quetta Airport’s team did a world-class job!
Key Benefits of the New Runway for Pakistan and Quetta
The new runway at Quetta International Airport is not just a road for planes. It brings big changes to the people of Balochistan and to all of Pakistan’s aviation system.
Here are some important benefits:
For the People of Quetta
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Faster Flights | Bigger runway allows bigger planes, which means more direct flights. |
| More Travel Options | New airlines can now land at Quetta Airport. |
| Job Opportunities | Airport staff, engineers, and tourism jobs will increase. |
For Pakistan’s Aviation Sector
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Stronger Regional Connectivity | Helps connect remote areas like Quetta with other big cities. |
| Supports Economic Growth | Boosts trade, tourism, and business in the region. |
| Better Passenger Safety | Advanced runway materials and lighting make landings safer. |
| Military & Emergency Use | New design supports quick response for military or disaster rescue flights. |
This runway expansion project is a big step in improving civil aviation infrastructure in Pakistan. It shows that even remote areas like Quetta can receive world-class upgrades when the government and engineering experts work together.
Who Built It – Engineering Firms & Their Roles
The amazing new runway at Quetta International Airport was not built overnight. It was made possible by top engineering minds and expert companies working together.
Main Company Behind the Project
The main company that designed and supervised the runway was NESPAK (National Engineering Services Pakistan). This is one of Pakistan’s best engineering firms. NESPAK has worked on many big projects like roads, dams, and airports.
They made sure the runway followed international aviation standards and was strong enough for all kinds of big planes.
Other Partners Involved
Here is a list of different companies and teams who helped:
| Company/Team | Role in the Project |
|---|---|
| NESPAK | Design, supervision, and quality control |
| CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) | Managed the entire project and made final decisions |
| Construction Contractors | Built the runway with heavy machines and modern materials |
| Local Engineers & Workers | Helped in daily tasks, safety checks, and equipment handling |
Award-Winning Work
Because of this excellent teamwork, the project won the FIDIC Asia Pacific Engineering Excellence Award. This shows how engineering innovation in Pakistan is now getting international respect.
The team completed the entire job without shutting down the airport, which was a big achievement. It proves that with proper planning and local skills, we can build world-class infrastructure even in far-off places like Quetta.
Cost, Duration, and Construction Highlights
Building a big runway like the one at Quetta International Airport is not easy or cheap. But this project was a success because it was well-managed, on time, and under expert supervision.
Total Cost of the Project
The total cost of building the new runway was around PKR 5 billion. That’s a lot of money, but for a project this big, the budget was used smartly. It included:
- Modern materials like high-strength asphalt and concrete
- Strong lighting and navigation systems
- Safety systems for landing and take-off
- Machines and equipment for heavy-duty construction
Time Taken to Complete
The project was completed in around 2 years, but here’s the amazing part:
The airport stayed open the whole time! ✈️
This means all the work was done without stopping flights, which is a big challenge in such a huge aviation development project.
Key Construction Highlights
Here’s a quick look at some construction highlights:
| Construction Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Runway Length | One of the longest in Pakistan (over 12,000 feet) |
| Material Used | Extra-strong asphalt and concrete |
| Lighting System | Modern lights for safe night landings |
| Weather Tolerance | Designed to handle tough Quetta weather |
| Project Completion | Finished without closing the airport |
This smooth construction timeline, budget control, and strong teamwork made the Quetta Airport runway a model for other infrastructure projects in Pakistan.
Impact on Quetta and the Region
The new runway at Quetta Airport is not just a win for the airport – it’s a huge achievement for the whole region of Balochistan and especially for the city of Quetta.
Better Connectivity and Growth for Quetta
Now that the runway is complete, bigger planes can land easily. This means:
- More flights can come to and go from Quetta
- Better travel options for people living in Balochistan
- Quicker cargo delivery, which helps local businesses
Before this, Quetta was a bit cut off. But now, it’s connected like other major cities. This will help the growth of Quetta city and make it an important logistics hub.
Boost to Business and Tourism
The improved airport means more visitors and investors can reach Quetta. This helps:
- Hotels, shops, and transport services
- Local farmers and traders who want to export goods
- Development of tourist attractions in Balochistan like Ziarat and Hanna Lake
This kind of regional development brings jobs and better income for local people.
A Step Forward for Balochistan
This project shows that Balochistan is also getting modern. Big projects like this improve the image of the region, and more government and private investment can now be expected.
The new Quetta runway is more than just concrete and lights — it’s a gateway to progress.
International Recognition & Reactions
The new runway at Quetta Airport caught the attention of the world when it won the FIDIC Asia Pacific Engineering Excellence Award. This is one of the most respected awards in the world of construction and design.
What Is the FIDIC Award?
FIDIC stands for International Federation of Consulting Engineers. Every year, they give awards to projects that meet global engineering standards and show high-quality planning, safety, and innovation.
Winning this means:
- Pakistan’s engineers did world-class work
- The project is seen as a model for smart airport construction
- It stands out even among Asia Pacific’s best infrastructure projects
Positive Reactions from Around the World
Many experts from other countries have praised the project. Here’s what they liked most:
- The airport stayed open during construction
- The 5-billion-rupee runway was finished on time
- It’s now one of the strongest runways in the entire region
People are saying that Pakistan’s engineering sector has reached a new level of excellence.
🇵🇰 A Proud Moment for Pakistan
This win has made Pakistan proud. It proves we can:
- Handle big technical projects
- Meet international construction standards
- Lead in the Asia Pacific infrastructure sector
The award also encourages young engineers to dream big and work hard for their country.
What Makes This Runway Special (Features & Stats)
The new runway at Quetta Airport is not just any ordinary runway. It has special features that make it one of the best in the Asia Pacific region.
Runway Length & Strength
This runway is now among the longest and strongest in Pakistan. Engineers made sure it could handle the weight of large international planes.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Runway Length | 3,658 meters (about 12,000 ft) |
| Runway Material | High-grade asphalt concrete |
| Thickness of Surface | 3 layers for extra strength |
| Aircraft Supported | Wide-body jets (e.g., Boeing 777) |
| Lighting System | Modern LED runway lights |
| Drainage System | Advanced for water flow control |
These features help improve aviation safety, even in bad weather or emergency landings.
Construction Without Closing the Airport
One of the most unique things about this project was that the airport remained open. Normally, airports shut down during construction, but engineers used a smart phased approach to avoid any flight delays.
That’s why it’s now being called a model project for how to upgrade a runway without disturbing airport operations.
Other Upgrades Done
Along with the runway, other improvements were also made:
- New runway shoulders for stability
- Better taxiway connections
- Improved air traffic control systems
This shows how the Quetta Airport project focused on engineering quality, passenger safety, and long-term strength.
Impact on Balochistan and Local Development
The new runway at Quetta Airport is not just good for flights—it’s also great for Balochistan’s future. This upgrade brings many positive changes for the local people and the region.
Boost to Local Economy
With more international flights now possible, tourism and trade in Balochistan will grow. That means more visitors, more business, and more money coming into the province.
| Area of Impact | Positive Effect |
|---|---|
| Tourism | Easier travel for local & foreign tourists |
| Trade | Faster export of local goods like dry fruits |
| Business | Big companies may invest in Quetta |
| Air Cargo | Quicker delivery of products |
This upgrade will help Quetta become a travel hub, not just for Balochistan but for the whole region.
Job Creation and Skills Development
During construction, the project gave hundreds of jobs to local workers. Engineers, machine operators, and laborers all got a chance to work and learn new skills.
Even after completion, the airport expansion will lead to more jobs in:
- Ground staff
- Security
- Maintenance
- Airport services
This supports local employment and helps people earn a better living.
Better Connectivity for Balochistan
Before, Balochistan was cut off from many parts of the country. But now, thanks to this project:
- More domestic and international flights can land.
- People can travel safely and quickly to and from Quetta.
- The region becomes more connected to the rest of Pakistan and the world.
This is a major step toward solving infrastructure issues in Balochistan.
International Recognition & Importance of the Award
The Quetta Airport runway project didn’t just help Balochistan—it also made Pakistan proud by winning a big international award. This was not a small achievement. It was a sign that Pakistan’s engineers can work at global standards.
Why This Award Matters
The International Airport Engineering Award is given to projects that show:
- Strong design
- Safe construction
- Long-term benefits
- Modern engineering methods
The Quetta Airport project ticked all these boxes. It showed the world that Pakistan’s civil engineers are not behind anyone.
Making Pakistan Proud Globally
This award is also important because:
- It shows Pakistan is growing in the field of infrastructure.
- It gives motivation to young engineers.
- It improves the country’s reputation in aviation and construction.
- It can lead to more foreign projects for Pakistani firms.
So, this is more than just a trophy—it’s a moment of national pride.
Reactions from Officials and Public Opinion
When the news came out that Quetta Airport had won a big international engineering award, there was a lot of excitement in Pakistan. People from all over the country were happy and proud.
Government and Officials’ Statements
Many top government officials gave their responses. They said the award was a big moment for Pakistan’s engineering and construction sector.
Here’s what some of them said:
| Official Name | Position | Statement Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Khawaja Saad Rafique | Aviation Minister | Called it “a proud moment for civil aviation in Pakistan.” |
| CAA Officials | Civil Aviation Authority | Thanked the project team for their excellent work. |
| Local Authorities | Quetta Government | Said it would boost development in Balochistan. |
They all agreed it was more than an award—it was a message to the world that Pakistan can build great things.
What the People Said
On social media, many people posted happy messages. Citizens, especially from Balochistan, said they finally feel seen and respected. Students and engineers also shared the news, calling it a great example of Pakistani talent.
Media channels like ARY News, Geo News, and Dawn covered the story and gave positive reviews about the project’s success.
This award made everyone—from ordinary people to top officials—feel proud of Pakistan’s achievement.
What This Means for Balochistan’s Development
This award isn’t just about the airport. It also brings hope for Balochistan’s future. For a long time, this province was behind in development. But now, things are changing.
Better Travel and More Tourists
With a modern international airport, more tourists and businesspeople can come to Quetta. That means more hotels, restaurants, and local shops will grow. People will feel safer and happier to travel.
| Benefit | Impact on Balochistan |
|---|---|
| Tourism Boost | More local and international visitors |
| Business Growth | New companies may invest here |
| Improved Connectivity | Easier flights and cargo transport |
Jobs and Economy Will Improve
The new airport also means more jobs for local people—like engineers, workers, drivers, and airport staff. More businesses can start in the area because it’s easier to connect with the rest of the country.
This helps in:
- Reducing unemployment
- Increasing local income
- Bringing better infrastructure
So, this award is not just a trophy. It’s a signal of change and development for Balochistan.
Lessons for Other Infrastructure Projects in Pakistan
The news that Quetta Airport Wins International Engineering Award gives a strong message to the rest of Pakistan: big projects can be done in smart ways. This runway was made without closing the airport, which shows great planning.
Key Lessons Learned:
| Lesson | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Smart Planning | Project worked while airport stayed open |
| Strong Quality Control | High engineering standards were followed |
| Use of Modern Technology | Helped complete the work faster and safer |
| Focus on Safety | No major accidents or delays reported |
| Teamwork and Leadership | Experts, workers, and departments worked together |
Inspiration for Other Cities
Other cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar can also learn from Quetta’s success. If planning is done right, then projects can be faster, safer, and cost-effective. It also proves that Pakistan has great engineers and builders who can do world-class work.
So, the award is not just for Quetta. It’s a lesson for all future projects in Pakistan.
Final Verdict – Why This Award Really Matters
The fact that Quetta Airport Wins International Engineering Award is a big win for Pakistan. It shows that our country can complete world-class projects using local teams and smart planning.
This award is not just a trophy. It brings international respect and shows that Pakistan is moving ahead in modern infrastructure and development. The new runway will help boost trade, travel, and tourism in Balochistan and beyond.
A Proud Moment for Pakistan
It proves that:
- Our engineers are talented.
- Our planning is becoming smarter.
- Our projects can be safe and strong.
Quetta’s new runway is now a success story — one that inspires other cities to dream big and build even better.
FAQs About Quetta Airport’s Big Achievement
hawar, and Skardu.
Conclusion
The new runway at Quetta International Airport is more than just concrete and lights — it’s a symbol of Pakistan’s engineering talent. Winning the FIDIC Asia Pacific Engineering Award proves that local engineers can build global-level infrastructure without shutting down everyday airport work.
This project brings pride not only to Quetta and Balochistan, but to all of Pakistan. It will help with air travel, cargo transport, tourism, and more. Most importantly, it shows that with the right planning, teamwork, and hard work, even a faraway region can shine on the world map.
Now all eyes are on how this runway success story inspires more projects in Pakistan’s aviation and engineering fields. 🇵🇰
