Flight Operations Resume to Gulf Region After Airspace Reopening

Flight operations to the Gulf region have recommenced following the reopening of airspace over Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, according to aviation sources on Tuesday.

This development occurs after a temporary cessation of operations by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the national carrier, which took place late last night due to heightened regional tensions.

PIA has now reinstated its flights heading towards the Gulf; however, passengers should anticipate delays ranging from five to thirteen hours for departures.

According to flight schedules, a total of 32 flights originating from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and various other airports throughout the nation have been called off. This includes 14 flights operated by Qatar Airways.

Airline sources have also indicated that 55 flights—including both incoming and outgoing services—have experienced delays at airports in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and other cities.

While Saudi Arabia and the UAE maintained open airspace, several flights were rerouted to alternative airports due to the worsening circumstances in the Gulf.

Bahrain and Kuwait initiated the resumption of operations earlier, with Qatar following later in the night, thereby facilitating the partial restoration of services.

Impacted Flights:
  • Significant delays are being reported across various routes.
  • PIA flight PK 747 from Lahore to Madinah is facing a delay of 13 hours, while PK 247 from Lahore to Dammam is delayed by 6.5 hours.
  • Qatar Airways flight QR 621 from Doha to Karachi and Lahore has been delayed by 10 hours.
  • PIA flight PK 233 from Islamabad to Dubai is experiencing a substantial delay of 15 hours.
  • Additionally, two incoming flights from Bahrain to Islamabad have been delayed by 4 hours.