F.P. Report
LAHORE: Amid ongoing tensions between Pakistan and India, authorities have announced the continued partial closure of a specific portion of the Karachi-Lahore Flight Information Region (FIR) until May 31, citing operational and security reasons.
According to a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued by Pakistan’s aviation authorities, a specific air corridor between Karachi and Lahore will remain unavailable daily from 8am to 4pm throughout the month. However, alternative routes will be used to ensure continued commercial flight operations during this period.
A spokesperson for the Pakistan Airport Authority confirmed the development, emphasizing that the partial closure is not expected to cause any significant disruption to domestic air traffic. “This decision has been taken due to operational requirements. All necessary measures are in place to facilitate safe and uninterrupted flights through alternate routes,” the spokesperson added.
Aviation sources also noted that air traffic controllers will assist pilots navigating through the affected zone, particularly between 3am and 11am, ensuring minimal impact on scheduled operations.
The temporary airspace restrictions are being viewed in the context of heightened regional tensions following the recent Pahalgam incident in Indian-occupied Kashmir, which has led to a series of diplomatic and logistical escalations between the two countries.
Authorities have reiterated that the move is precautionary and part of standard aviation safety protocols. Passengers are advised to stay in touch with airlines for any updates regarding flight timings and routes.
Over 1,000 Indian flights affected
Meanwhile, the closure of Pakistani airspace for Indian flights has entered its 10th day, significantly disrupting air travel and causing financial losses for Indian airlines.
During the last nine days, more than 1,000 Indian flights have been affected, resulting in an estimated loss of over 200 million Indian rupees for Indian carriers.
Flights operated by major airlines, including Air India, AirAsia, SpiceJet, IndiGo, and Air India Express, have been canceled or rerouted due to the ongoing restrictions. IndiGo’s flight operations to Central Asian countries remain suspended, further limiting international connectivity.
Flights from key Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Amritsar, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad to Dubai have also been severely disrupted.
Adding to the frustration, many Indian passengers whose flights were canceled have not received refunds from the airlines, raising concerns over customer service and compensation policies.
