The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued a non-binding advisory to airlines, recommending them not to fly below FL 260 altitude when flying over Lahore and Karachi. This advisory comes in light of the current security situation in Pakistan. It involves the presence of violent non-state actor groups armed with possible anti-aviation weaponry, including MANPADS (man-portable air-defense systems).
EASA’s latest advisory note states that there remains a continued potential threat to civil aviation operations. The advisory particularly mentions airlines flying at altitudes below FL 260.
It notes, “The Kashmir region’s territorial dispute, coupled with sporadic military activities, poses an inadvertent risk to civil aviation. It has the potential for misidentification in case of military escalation, especially in the Lahore region.”
Although the advisory is not mandatory, EASA encourages air operators to consider this information and other risk assessment data. This advisory by EASA is similar to ones issued to French and German air operators over the past year.
EASA has not specified any particular threat of attack on flights to, from, or within Pakistan. The agency continues to focus on ensuring safe air operations globally. It accomplishes this mission by proposing and formulating rules, standards, and guidance, as well as certifying aircraft, parts, and equipment, and overseeing organizations across all aviation domains.
EASA’s commitment to ensuring safe air operations globally extends beyond the current advisory issued. The agency remains vigilant in monitoring potential threats to civil aviation worldwide and proactively responds to emerging security challenges.
By sharing valuable insights with national authorities, EASA reinforces a coordinated approach to aviation safety and security. The agency’s non-binding advisory serves as a proactive measure to raise awareness among air operators. It encourages them to prioritize passenger safety and take informed decisions based on the available information.
