Lahore airport shuts daily for 3 hours over monsoon safety

The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has announced that commercial flight operations at Allama Iqbal International Airport will be suspended on both runways for three hours every day over the next 70 days. The temporary measure has been introduced to reduce the risk of bird strikes during the monsoon season.

According to the PAA, both runways will remain closed daily from 5:00am to 8:00am from July 5 to September 15. Officials said bird activity around the airport increases significantly during the rainy season, particularly at altitudes below 3,000 feet, creating additional risks for aircraft during take-off and landing.

The authority has advised pilots to remain extra vigilant during arrivals and departures. Airlines have also been instructed to carry sufficient fuel to manage possible delays caused by ground or airborne holding.

The PAA clarified that all scheduled commercial flights will continue to operate outside the restricted hours. It also confirmed that emergency landings will be facilitated whenever necessary to ensure passenger safety.

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A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued to inform airlines and flight operators about the temporary operational changes. The authority said the decision is aimed at maintaining the highest aviation safety standards while minimising inconvenience for passengers and airline operators.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast a fresh spell of monsoon rain across the country during the first week of July. Lahore is expected to receive rainfall from July 1 to July 6, which could further increase bird activity around the airport.