Pakistan Cancellations Amid Major Flight Disruptions

Aviation authorities report over 20 cancellations from Jeddah due to low passenger load.

On Sunday, Pakistan’s aviation sector faced significant disruptions as at least 83 domestic and international flights were cancelled across the country, while only 430 operated in the last 24 hours.

Officials stated that these cancellations were due to administrative and operational reasons affecting passengers at major airports including Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, Quetta, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Sukkur, and Gilgit.

Flight operation data showed that Karachi handled 123 flights, Islamabad 134, and Lahore 100 during the reporting period. The cancellations included 20 from Karachi, 19 from Islamabad, 15 from Lahore, and 11 from Multan. Additionally, five flights each were cancelled from Quetta and Faisalabad, along with four from Peshawar and two each from Sukkur and Gilgit.

The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 around airports and Pakistan Air Force airbases for 30 days to enhance aviation safety and security. Under these restrictions, activities such as pigeon flying, use of laser lights, and dumping of animal waste have been banned within a 13-kilometre radius of airports and airbases. Passengers are advised to stay updated with airlines and airport authorities regarding flight schedules, delays, and rescheduling before heading to the airports.