Pakistan has banned Taiwanese airlines from using its airspace in support of China’s One-China policy. The decision has forced major airlines to change international flight routes.
According to reports published on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, Pakistan has become the first country to introduce such restrictions specifically against Taiwanese carriers.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed the decision, stating that Pakistan’s aviation policy recognizes mainland China.
Taiwanese Airlines Forced to Change Flight Routes
Flight-tracking data from Flightradar24 revealed that China Airlines and EVA Air stopped using Pakistani airspace on October 25.
Since then, at least 12 flights connecting Asia and Europe have been rerouted through Russian airspace.
These longer routes could increase travel times, fuel consumption, and operational expenses.
Both airlines declined to comment on the restrictions.
Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Civil Aeronautics Administration did not directly address the rerouting decision.
Pakistan’s Airspace Restrictions Stricter Than China’s
Interestingly, Pakistan’s new restrictions are stricter than Beijing’s aviation policies.
Mainland China continues allowing Taiwanese airlines to operate through its airspace.
Pakistan has maintained diplomatic relations with Beijing since the early 1950s and does not officially recognize Taiwan as an independent country.
The decision reflects Islamabad’s longstanding diplomatic and strategic partnership with China.
Pakistan Also Maintains Airspace Ban on Indian Airlines
Pakistan has separately restricted Indian airlines from using its airspace following tensions between the neighboring countries.
The government recently extended those restrictions until November 24, 2026.
The latest decision could create additional operational challenges for Taiwanese carriers serving international destinations.
However, the duration of the new restrictions remains unclear.
