Islamabad, May 11 (UNI) Even though Pakistan-India hostilities have calmed down due to a ceasefire, and its airspace is now completely open, over 150 flights in Pakistan have been cancelled, which has been attributed to ongoing uncertainty and logistical challenges.
Aviation sources said dozens of flights remained suspended, with the official schedule showing 45 cancellations from Karachi (including 39 international), 38 from Lahore (32 international), 40 from Islamabad (36 international), 11 from Peshawar, 10 from Multan, and six from Sialkot, according to The News International.
Meanwhile, more than 25 flights managed to operate from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Multan, Faisalabad, and Quetta despite the broader disruptions.
There has been massive disruption in international aviation in Pakistan, as over 125 major foreign carriers have cancelled inbound and outbound flights. This has forced flights between Karachi and Lahore or Islamabad to be rerouted via Quetta due to the closure of the Rahim Yar Khan flight corridor.
According to a Notam (Notice To Airmen) issued by the country’s aviation authorities, Rahim Yar Khan’s air route will remain closed until 5am on May 18. Flights from Gulf countries to cities like Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad are now facing longer durations due to detours.
The hostilities between India and Pakistan which lasted for 87 hours has caused a lot of disruption in Pakistan’s Haj operations, as several flights have either been pushed back greatly or cancelled completely due to tensions. This has led to additional charges for airlines, already facing major financial and operational challenges.
While airports across the country resumed normal operations, a PAA (Pakistan Airports Authority) spokesperson advised travellers to stay in contact with their respective airlines for updates on revised flight schedules.
UNI ANV RN