ISLAMABAD: Flight operations at Islamabad International Airport were temporarily suspended on Thursday after authorities reported disruptions caused by the unavailability of certain air routes.
The Pakistan Airports Authority announced the suspension through an official notice to airm, commonly known as NOTAM, informing airlines and aviation stakeholders about the temporary halt in airport activity.
According to the notice, operations at the airport were paused from 10:00 am until 1:15 pm. Officials said the measure was necessary to manage air traffic safely while specific routes remained unavailable.
Authorities explained that the restrictions affected flight scheduling and could potentially create operational challenges for airlines operating in and out of the federal capital.
Meanwhile, airlines were instructed to take precautionary steps to minimise disruptions for passengers and maintain flight safety during the temporary suspension period.
Airlines advised to prepare for possible delays
The aviation regulator also advised airlines to carry additional fuel on flights as a precaution against possible delays linked to airspace restrictions.
Officials said the extra fuel requirement would help aircraft remain operational if diversions or holding patterns became necessary due to limited route availability.
Although the suspension lasted only a few hours, the move temporarily disrupted flight schedules and required airlines to adjust their operations accordingly.
However, the Pakistan Airports Authority assured passengers and airlines that the situation was being monitored closely. Authorities said normal flight operations would resume immediately after the relevant airspace restrictions were lifted.
Islamabad International Airport is one of Pakistan’s major aviation hubs, handling domestic and international flights connecting the country with destinations across the Middle East, Asia and Europe.
Officials urged passengers to remain in contact with airlines for updated flight schedules while the temporary restrictions remained in effect.
