Flight operation closed at Lahore airport, resumes in Islamabad amid recent escalation

KARACHI: The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has once again issued a new NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) to close the regular aircraft operation in Lahore. However, the flight operation from Islamabad International Airport resumes, according to media report.

Earlier, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) reversed its earlier 48-hour NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) on the temporary closure of Pakistani airspace, allowing regular aircraft operations over key cities such as Lahore and Karachi.

According to a new NOTAM issued by the CAA, the prior restriction on airspace access has been revoked, allowing both domestic and foreign aircraft to continue operations along previously impacted air routes.

The development comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, causing officials to take preventive measures. However, the CAA underlined that individual airlines make the final choice on flight schedules and routing.

“In view of the evolving regional situation, passengers are advised to stay in contact with their respective airlines for updated information regarding their flights,” the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said.

Flight operations at major airports, including Karachi’s Jinnah International and Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International, have resumed, however, airlines may change itineraries based on operational needs.

To prevent disruption, travelers should be cautious and follow official airline notifications.

Prior Closure

Prior to  the above development, Pakistan temporarily blocked its airspace for 48 hours, halting all domestic and international flights from all of its airports, including Lahore, Karachi, Faisalabad, Sialkot, and Quetta.

According to aviation sources, Islamabad International Airport was closed to all aircraft operations, and all inbound and outgoing planes were redirected to Karachi airport. Authorities warned travelers not to travel to the airport and to return home. The Civil Aviation Authority indicated that normal flight operations would resume once the situation had stabilized.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) also announced the cancellation of all flights for the next 12 hours, citing operational concerns due to the current security situation.