Pakistan has announced a temporary closure of its airspace for two consecutive days, October 28 and 29, according to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority. The closure will last for three hours each day, from 6:00 am to 9:00 am, impacting both domestic and international flight schedules.
The NOTAM, which was shared with all airlines and aviation operators, stated that the closure is part of planned operational measures. Although the official reason has not been publicly disclosed, such restrictions are typically issued for military drills, air navigation safety checks, or maintenance-related operations.
Impact on Flight Operations
The temporary shutdown will affect flights scheduled to arrive, depart, or transit through Pakistani airspace during the specified hours. Airlines have been advised to adjust their flight timings accordingly to minimize disruption to passengers.
Travelers planning to fly on these dates are encouraged to check with their respective airlines for updated flight information and rescheduled departure times. Passengers connecting through Pakistan’s major airports, including Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore, are likely to experience minor delays.
Previous Instances of Airspace Closures
Pakistan occasionally enforces short-term airspace closures for strategic or technical reasons. Such measures are coordinated with international aviation bodies to ensure minimal interference with global air traffic routes.
The Civil Aviation Authority is expected to issue an advisory to all passengers and airlines to manage operations efficiently during the closure period.
Advisory for Passengers
Passengers are urged to arrive at airports earlier than usual and stay updated through official airline notifications. While the disruption is temporary, travelers should prepare for potential rescheduling or delays during the morning hours of October 28 and 29.
This planned airspace restriction is part of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to enhance flight safety and operational efficiency while maintaining smooth coordination with global aviation networks.
