Islamabad (TDI): Air operations across Pakistan have started returning to normal following the ceasefire agreed upon between Pakistan and India on Saturday evening, bringing much-needed stability to the region’s air traffic disruption.
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) confirmed that all airports across the country are now operational, allowing airlines to restore normal flight schedules.
The airspace restrictions were initially imposed in response to escalating military tensions between the two neighboring countries. The recent security situation led to the suspension of various flight routes, particularly affecting areas near the eastern border.
Commercial flight operations were temporarily halted due to security concerns and the precautionary measures undertaken by the civil aviation authorities.
Following the ceasefire, ten foreign airlines have now resumed their scheduled flights to Pakistan. Among those resuming operations are major regional and international carriers, with services restored to key Pakistani cities including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Quetta, Multan, and Peshawar.
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This development signals a cautious but significant return to normal air traffic and underscores the impact of de-escalation on regional connectivity.
Fly Dubai, which had initially canceled its Sunday operations to Pakistan, later reinstated flights and resumed services to multiple cities.
Emirates, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia, Ethiopian Airlines, Gulf Air, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Afghan Airlines, and FlyNas also restarted their operations, contributing to the partial recovery of international flight schedules.
Efforts are also underway to normalize Haj flights, ensuring that pilgrims can undertake their journeys without further delays.
Read More: Gilgit, Skardu Flights Cancelled Amid Airspace Alert
Despite progress on the international front, domestic flight disruptions continue. On Monday alone, more than 50 domestic flights were canceled due to ongoing operational adjustments.
These include 22 flights from Islamabad, 9 from Lahore, 15 from Karachi, 4 from Peshawar, 2 from Sialkot, and 1 from Faisalabad.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) also adjusted several of its routes, shifting flights from Sialkot to Lahore for departures to Sharjah, Dammam, and Kuwait due to logistical reasons.
Civil aviation officials have urged passengers to stay updated on flight schedules, as adjustments are expected to continue in the short term. Authorities remain in contact with airlines and airport management teams to facilitate the full normalization of services across all sectors.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
