500 flights cancelled in three days as Middle East war disrupts Pakistan air travel

Air operations between Pakistan and several Middle Eastern destinations have been disrupted amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States, with more than 500 domestic and international flights cancelled over the past three days, according to a news report. 

Data from the Pakistan Airport Authority shows that departures and arrivals at major airports across the country have been affected, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. Air cargo services have also been suspended, interrupting the movement of food items and other goods.

Flights operated by Pakistan International Airlines, private carriers and foreign airlines from Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta, Faisalabad and Multan to Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Sharjah, Dubai, Turkey, Iraq and Iran have been called off. At present, only flights to and from Saudi Arabia are continuing.

Airport officials said certain regional airspaces have been closed, prompting airlines to suspend or adjust operations. There is no confirmed timeline for the restoration of normal flight schedules.

The suspension of cargo services has affected supply chains, creating difficulties for businesses dependent on air freight. Industrial stakeholders have reported delays in receiving shipments.

Travel agents also report cancellations and uncertainty among Umrah pilgrims. A senior representative of the Travel Agents Association said many pilgrims had booked travel via Dubai, and while air tickets can be refunded, hotel bookings are generally non-refundable, exposing agents to potential financial losses.

Officials maintain that Pakistan’s airspace remains open and secure, but airlines have revised flight plans in response to restrictions and security concerns in neighbouring airspace. Further disruptions are possible if the regional situation continues.