ISLAMABAD: The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has officially lifted the 48-hour Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) regarding the temporary closure of Pakistani airspace, allowing the resumption of normal flight operations over key cities, including Lahore and Karachi.
A revised NOTAM issued by the CAA has cancelled the earlier airspace restriction, enabling domestic and international flights to once again utilize the previously closed air corridors. This move comes after a precautionary suspension of air traffic amid escalating regional tensions.
The CAA emphasized, however, that final decisions regarding flight schedules and routes remain at the discretion of individual airlines. “In view of the evolving regional situation, passengers are strongly advised to remain in contact with their respective airlines for real-time updates,” the CAA said in an official statement.
Airports such as Karachi’s Jinnah International and Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International have since resumed regular operations. However, airlines may still make schedule adjustments based on operational assessments and security considerations.
Travelers are urged to remain vigilant and follow airline communications to avoid potential disruptions.
Earlier, in response to the deteriorating security situation, Pakistan had temporarily closed its airspace for 48 hours, suspending all domestic and international flights at major airports including Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Sialkot, and Quetta.
During the closure, Islamabad International Airport was shut down for all air traffic, with incoming and outgoing flights diverted to Karachi. Authorities advised passengers to avoid traveling to the airports and instead wait for further instructions.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) had also announced a 12-hour suspension of all flights, citing operational challenges tied to the security environment. A PIA spokesperson advised passengers to remain in touch with airline call centers for updates, assuring them they would be kept informed as the situation evolved.
Sialkot International Airport remained temporarily closed during this period, with officials stating the move was a necessary safety measure in light of the regional circumstances.
