Authorities have imposed a complete ban on kite flying in areas surrounding Allama Iqbal International Airport as part of strict safety measures to ensure uninterrupted and secure flight operations ahead of the Basant season.
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), in coordination with the Punjab government and Lahore district administration, issued clear directives citing serious risks posed by kite flying to aircraft during take-off and landing. Acting on these concerns, the Deputy Commissioner Lahore has formally enforced restrictions under Section 144.
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According to official notifications, kite flying is prohibited in at least 10 to 15 localities located within airport take-off and landing paths. These include Nadirabad, Gulshan Colony, Nishat Colony, Bhatta Chowk, Joray Pull, Alfaisal Town, Taj Bagh, Tajpura, Canal Bank Road, and several areas of Defence Housing Authority (DHA), including four major blocks. Additional localities such as Ali View Garden and Ali Park are also covered under the ban.
Officials clarified that no kite flying will be allowed in areas falling within aircraft flight corridors, as even minor obstructions such as kites and chemical or metallic strings can pose severe hazards to aviation safety.
Earlier, the Chief Operating Officer of Allama Iqbal International Airport had formally recommended the ban in a written letter to the district administration. Following this correspondence—sent on January 12—the authorities finalized and enforced the restrictions.
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The Pakistan Airports Authority emphasized that the decision was taken purely in the interest of passenger safety and smooth air traffic operations. Alongside the ban, officials have been directed to strictly prevent the use of metallic and chemical kite strings, which are considered especially dangerous.
Law enforcement agencies will remain active in affected areas to ensure full compliance during Basant festivities, and violators will face legal action under prevailing laws.
