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Pakistan partially closes airspace until March 31 amid regional flight disruptions

More than 150 international flights to and from Middle Eastern destinations cancelled as route segments in Karachi and Lahore FIRs shut daily from 9am to 3pm until March 31.

TAS News Service

info@thearabianstories.com

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan Airports Authority has announced a partial suspension of its airspace for commercial operations through March 31, citing operational constraints linked to ongoing regional instability in the Middle East.

According to an official statement, designated route segments within the Karachi and Lahore flight information regions will remain unavailable daily from 9:00am to 3:00pm local time (04:00 to 10:00 GMT), effective immediately.

The move comes as airlines continue to grapple with widespread disruption across the region. More than 150 international flights operating between Pakistani cities and key Middle Eastern destinations have already been cancelled, affecting thousands of passengers.

Authorities said the temporary restrictions are being implemented for operational and safety reasons. Airlines have been advised to adjust schedules accordingly, while passengers are urged to check with their respective carriers for the latest updates on flight status.

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