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Gilgit, the provincial headquarters of Gilgit-Baltistan and centre of activity for 6 districts out of total 10 is currently receiving an average of only two flights per week. It is widely reported that Pakistan International Airlines (@Official_PIA) is left with just a single ATR aircraft — and that too is not in good condition. Locally, this aircraft is not seen as a safe travel after multiple accidents. As a result, the people of the Gilgit region are left with two difficult choices: endure long and often dangerous road journeys, or fly via Skardu. Travelling via Skardu more than doubles the cost of air travel. Passengers must first travel by road from Gilgit to Skardu, stay overnight in a hotel, and only then catch a flight the next day. We will not even dwell here on the severe losses being suffered by the tourism sector in the Gilgit region, as the bulk of tourists are now choosing Skardu instead. Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan @AdvocateAmjad_ took a strong and welcome stance immediately after assuming office, but it appears the momentum has since faded. The @IDGB_Official (Government of Gilgit-Baltistan) seems least interested, and the office of the Chief Secretary @csgbpk remains silent as well. When the people of Gilgit-Baltistan raise their voice for the most basic human rights — reliable air connectivity — they are too often labelled as “nationalists” or even “Ghaddar.” No one here is a traitor. The people of Gilgit-Baltistan have made immense sacrifices for Pakistan. They at least deserve 2–3 new mid-sized aircraft so that their provincial headquarters is no longer left isolated. Respectfully tagging: @CMShehbaz @OfficialDGISPR @Official_PIA @AdvocateAmjad_ @IDGB_Official @csgbpk @GBTourism_ @miryasirabbas @BasharatIssa @MarianaBaabar @AdvocateAmjad_ @bercha_i