Air travel between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia faced major disruption on Friday as regional security concerns forced airlines to cancel dozens of flights. A total of 42 Saudi Arabia-bound flights were cancelled, while another 68 faced delays ranging from two to seven hours.
The disruption affected passengers at several international airports across Pakistan, with Umrah pilgrims among those facing difficulties. The cancellations followed heightened tensions in the Middle East and security concerns linked to attacks on Saudi airports.
Lahore Airport Reports Highest Cancellations
Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport recorded 13 cancelled flights and 12 delays. The disruptions left passengers facing uncertainty over departure schedules and travel arrangements.
At Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, authorities reported 10 cancellations and 13 delayed flights. Islamabad International Airport also experienced significant disruption, with nine flights cancelled and eight delayed.
Meanwhile, Multan International Airport reported seven cancellations. These figures highlight the widespread impact of the regional situation on Pakistan’s international air operations.
Umrah Pilgrims Among Those Affected
Passengers travelling to Saudi Arabia have faced difficulties as airlines adjust their schedules in response to security concerns. Umrah pilgrims have been particularly affected, with cancellations disrupting religious travel plans.
Travellers may also face additional uncertainty when connecting flights, hotel bookings and other arrangements depend on their original departure times.
Airport sources attributed the disruption to the security situation affecting flights to Saudi Arabia and other regional destinations. However, individual flight schedules may change as airlines assess operational conditions.
Middle East Tensions Disrupt Regional Aviation
The cancellations come amid escalating security concerns following attacks claimed by Yemen’s Houthi movement against Saudi targets, including Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport.
Saudi authorities and the Saudi-led coalition have reported intercepting missiles directed towards Riyadh. The wider situation has prompted airlines to review operations and led to cancellations and delays at Saudi airports.
International carriers, including Air India and Lufthansa, have also suspended some Riyadh services temporarily.
Passengers Urged to Check Flight Updates
Travellers heading to Saudi Arabia should confirm their flight status directly with their airline before leaving for the airport. Departure times, cancellations and alternative arrangements may change at short notice. Passengers should also contact airlines about rebooking options and refunds if their journeys have been disrupted.
The situation remains uncertain as airlines monitor regional security developments. Further changes to flight schedules will depend on operational assessments and the evolving situation across the Middle East.
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