Dense fog severely disrupted flight operations at Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport on Saturday, affecting both domestic and international travel. As a result, dozens of passengers faced cancellations, long delays, and offloading incidents amid poor visibility conditions.
Flight Operations Hit Hard
Airport operations suffered major setbacks as fog reduced visibility levels throughout the day. In total, 25 flights were affected due to unstable weather conditions. Among these, three flights were cancelled, while several others faced extended delays.
Meanwhile, long security clearance queues added to passenger frustration. Many travelers remained stranded inside terminals, unable to board scheduled flights on time.
Cancellations and Offloading Incidents
Flights operated by both a private airline and a foreign carrier were cancelled due to safety concerns. In addition, passengers aboard a Pakistan International Airlines flight bound for Dammam were offloaded after boarding procedures had begun.
Consequently, confusion and congestion increased inside the departure lounges. Airport authorities struggled to manage crowds as schedules continued to change.
Delays on International and Domestic Routes
The fog caused delays ranging from two to fifteen hours for multiple inbound and outbound flights. Affected destinations included Karachi, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Jeddah, Madina, Dubai, Riyadh, Istanbul, and Doha.
As weather conditions fluctuated, departure times were repeatedly revised. Therefore, passengers remained uncertain about revised schedules throughout the day.
Umrah Pilgrims Among the Worst Affected
Umrah passengers faced particular hardship as several flights to Saudi Arabia and Gulf destinations experienced prolonged delays. Many pilgrims waited for hours without clear departure updates.
As a result, families and elderly travelers encountered discomfort and anxiety. Airport staff attempted to assist passengers, although conditions remained challenging.
Airlines Issue Advisory
Airlines advised passengers to stay updated on flight schedules before traveling to the airport. Travelers were also urged to arrive according to revised timings to avoid further inconvenience.
Authorities emphasized that safety remains the top priority during adverse weather conditions. Operations are expected to normalize once visibility improves.
Conclusion
The dense fog episode highlighted the vulnerability of winter air operations at Lahore airport. With 25 flights disrupted and Umrah pilgrims affected, passengers faced significant inconvenience. However, timely advisories and improved coordination may help reduce disruption during future weather challenges.
