I flew to Skardu in the north of Pakistan. This is one of the most scenic and exciting flights in the country. Captain Majid from PIA gave a quick briefing on the ATR-42-500 flight. Soon after takeoff from Islamabad, the plane flew directly over the mountains in the north of Pakistan.

It was a clear winter day of flying. The passengers are treated to a ‘one of a kind’ experience – a sky dance of the Karakoram and Hindu Kush ranges which include some of the highest peaks in the world. You can see Nanga Parbat (8,125m), Rakaposhi (7,788m), and above all, the spectacular K-2 (the second highest peak in the world) towering above all others at 8,611 meters.

The approach into Skardu was very tricky and no turning back once past the “decision point”. Pilot need to perform a “Z” shaped bend called a Zulu Bend, flying between a few mountain peaks before the Skardu valley appears.

After landing, I was given a quick tour as far as the Shangrila resort in Skardu. Check out the scenery and environment of Skardu. It is a hidden gem and has huge potential for tourism. Skardu airport has recently been upgraded to an international airport status. They’re constructing a new 6km runway. I flew PIA A320 on my way back. We flew past all the tall mountains with a clear view from the cockpit. It is truly the Air Safari.

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