Pakistan Flight Operations Disrupted as Regional Conflict Hits Aviation Sector

By Bilal Haider :

Flight operations across Pakistan remain severely affected as tensions linked to the ongoing Iran–US-Israel conflict continue to disrupt air travel, aviation officials say.

Airports across the country reported widespread cancellations on Monday, with more than 90 flights called off, including several departures from Allama Iqbal International Airport.

Thousands seek refunds

According to airport authorities, more than 110,000 passengers travelling to destinations such as the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Iran, Iraq and Azerbaijan have requested refunds following the suspension of flights.

The disruption comes during a peak travel period ahead of Eid al-Fitr, when many overseas Pakistanis typically return home and pilgrims travel for Umrah.

Industry faces mounting losses

Data from airlines and travel agencies suggest that nearly 1,955 flights have been cancelled from major Pakistani airports — including Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar and Quetta over the past 17 days.

Officials estimate that airlines have suffered losses amounting to billions of rupees, while travel agents have also reported significant financial setbacks due to widespread ticket cancellations.

Globally, the impact has been even wider, with more than 55,000 flights reportedly cancelled as a result of the conflict.

Flight returns mid-air

In one incident, an aircraft operated by Emirates on flight EK-623 from Lahore to Dubai was forced to turn back mid-journey due to security concerns. The plane, carrying more than 100 passengers, landed safely back in Lahore.

Travel agents hit hard

Representatives of the travel industry say the crisis has brought business to a near standstill.

Travel agents, who typically earn modest service fees on international tickets, say the surge in refunds and the sharp drop in new bookings have wiped out their income during what is usually a busy season.

Limited operations continue

Authorities say flights to several Middle Eastern destinations including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Bahrain remain suspended, with only limited services operating.

However, flights to Saudi Arabia, Muscat, parts of Europe, Canada, Malaysia, Thailand and Sri Lanka are continuing, offering limited options for travellers.

Officials say the situation remains uncertain, with further disruptions likely if regional tensions persist.

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