ISLAMABAD: Dera Ismail Khan Airport could resume flight operations in the near future after remaining closed for more than a decade, with most rehabilitation work already completed and the remaining infrastructure upgrades approaching completion, according to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi.
Speaking during recent engagements in the southern district, Kundi said runway carpeting work has been completed while the final phase of development is progressing rapidly, raising expectations that commercial flight services could soon return to the region.
The airport has remained largely inactive since 2015, limiting direct air connectivity for residents, businesses, government officials and overseas Pakistanis linked to Dera Ismail Khan and surrounding districts.
Officials familiar with the project said rehabilitation efforts have focused on runway improvements, operational safety requirements and airport infrastructure needed to meet aviation standards before passenger services can resume.
The completion of runway carpeting marks one of the most important milestones in the restoration project, as runway conditions are central to obtaining operational clearances and ensuring safe aircraft movements.
Dera Ismail Khan serves as a key urban center in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and connects economically with adjoining areas of Punjab and Balochistan.
Local business groups and community representatives have long demanded the revival of airport operations, arguing that the closure increased travel times and transportation costs for residents and investors.
The region plays an important role in agriculture, livestock production and trade activities, while also serving as a gateway to several districts in southern KP.
According to officials, improved air connectivity could support business travel, facilitate government operations and encourage greater economic activity in the wider region.
Governor Kundi said the project reflects efforts to improve public infrastructure and address long-standing transportation challenges faced by residents of southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
While an exact reopening date has not yet been announced, authorities indicated that only limited work remains before operational assessments can move into their final stages.
Pakistan’s aviation sector has seen renewed attention in recent years as authorities seek to improve regional connectivity and modernize airport facilities across multiple provinces.
The country currently operates dozens of civil airports under the supervision of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, although passenger traffic remains concentrated at major hubs including Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad.
Analysts say reopening Dera Ismail Khan Airport could reduce travel dependence on distant airports and improve accessibility for businesses operating in southern KP.
The development could also benefit overseas Pakistanis visiting the region, particularly during peak travel periods when road journeys often require several additional hours.
Improved aviation links may further support tourism potential in nearby areas and facilitate quicker movement of goods, services and administrative personnel.
The project comes at a time when federal and provincial authorities are emphasizing infrastructure-led development to stimulate regional economic growth and improve connectivity between underserved areas and major commercial centers.
Local stakeholders believe restored flight operations could attract fresh investment opportunities and strengthen integration between southern KP and national markets.
Aviation experts note that once final inspections and regulatory approvals are completed, airlines will evaluate route viability, passenger demand and operational costs before launching regular services.
The reopening of Dera Ismail Khan Airport would represent one of the most significant transport developments for southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in recent years, with authorities expected to provide further updates as remaining work reaches completion and operational readiness assessments advance.