Flight operations from Pakistan to Gulf nations were severely disrupted on Wednesday, with 75 flights canceled due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Major airports across the country, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar, reported significant operational disruptions.
From Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport (JIAP), 18 flights to Doha, Bahrain, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi were canceled. Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport (AIIA) called off 22 flights to Doha, Kuwait, Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. Islamabad’s New Islamabad International Airport (NIIA) canceled 19 flights bound for Riyadh, Doha, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Abu Dhabi, while 16 flights from Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar were also canceled.
Despite the cancellations, 14 flights from Karachi, 13 from Lahore, and 20 from Islamabad to the Middle East remained operational. Peshawar continues to operate 8 flights, bringing the total number of functional Gulf-bound flights in Pakistan today to 72.
Also Read: Pakistan Airlines increase ticket prices after jet fuel price hike
Rising Jet Fuel Prices Drive Airline Fare Hikes
Airlines in Pakistan have also increased ticket prices following a sharp surge in jet fuel costs, significantly impacting both domestic and international travelers.
- Domestic flights: fares increased by Rs2,800 to Rs5,000 per ticket.
- International flights: fares increased by Rs10,000 to Rs28,000 per ticket depending on the destination.
- Middle East & Central Asia flights: fares rose by up to Rs15,000 per ticket.
- Long-haul flights to Toronto and Manchester: fares increased by Rs28,000, pushing one-way economy tickets above Rs250,000.
The fare hikes follow a recent Rs154 per litre increase in jet fuel, raising the price to Rs342 per litre and causing significant pressure on airline operations and passenger costs.
Passenger Advisory and Travel Recommendations
Authorities and airline officials have advised passengers to verify flight status and ticket prices before travel. Airlines are closely monitoring regional tensions and rising fuel costs, which may further impact schedules and fares in the coming days. Travelers are urged to stay updated to avoid disruptions.
