ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) on Monday announced the temporary closure of selected airspace routes in Karachi and Lahore between March 3 and 31.
According to the NOTAM issued to the airlines, the closure will apply daily from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, preventing commercial flights from entering these Flight-Information Regions during ongoing Pakistan Air Force (PAF) fighter-jet exercises.
“All commercial airlines must reroute or adjust schedules to avoid the restricted airspace during the specified period,” the NOTAM stated.
Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore and Jinnah International Airport Karachi are expected to be affected.
Sources reveal that significant number of flights overflying the airspace will also be effected as they are using Pakistan and Afghanistan’s airspace due to the closure of airspace above gulf nations.
It came amid the reports indicating that more than 70 international flights from various airlines were delayed due to rising regional tension following the US-Israel attack on Iran.
These travel disruptions could extend beyond commercial airlines, potentially impacting passengers and cargo operations. Officials have not ruled out further adjustments as the security situation and military exercises continue. Travelers are being advised to check flight schedules and updates before departure.
The airspace closure highlights growing concerns about regional stability and its ripple effects on international aviation. With routes temporarily shut and flights rescheduled, the coming weeks could see significant changes in air traffic patterns.
Iran conflict
Israel and the United States on Saturday jointly launched late-night strikes on Iran, martyring Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, senior military leadership, and civilians.
The move plunged the region into a renewed military confrontation as Iran launhced retaliation attack on US military installation in Middle East and Israel.
Due to the ongoign air strikes, global air travel remained heavily disrupted as it kept major Middle Eastern airports, including Dubai, closed in one of the sharpest aviation shocks in recent years.
