Islamabad reports the highest number of disruptions, with 28 flights canceled on routes to Dubai, Doha, Bahrain and Muscat
Escalating tensions in the Middle East caused widespread disruption to air travel in Pakistan on Wednesday, with at least 92 incoming and outgoing flights canceled at major airports, stranding passengers and forcing airlines to scale back operations.
The cancellations affected major international routes linking Pakistan to the Gulf and beyond, underscoring the immediate consequences of regional instability on global air networks.
Addressing the PK Press Club Express speaking on condition of anonymity, an aviation official said Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore saw 18 flights canceled to destinations including Kuwait, Doha and Bahrain. At Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, at least 20 flights to Doha, Kuwait, Bahrain, Iran and other regional hubs were canceled.
Islamabad International Airport reported the highest number of disruptions, with 28 flights canceled on routes to Dubai, Doha, Bahrain and Muscat, while Peshawar Airport saw 16 flights to Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi cancelled.
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The disruptions also extended to smaller airports. Multan recorded four cancellations, while Sialkot saw six flights to Dubai, Doha, Riyadh and Bahrain suspended. On the other hand, operations at Faisalabad Airport are not affected, with flights continuing as planned.
Amid the uncertainty, Pakistan International Airlines announced operational changes to its Gulf routes, suspending flights to Fujairah for 48 hours due to security concerns. Limited operations to the UAE will continue, with flights to Al Ain operating as planned.
The official said the situation was constantly being reviewed and further adjustments would be likely if tensions persist. Passengers have been advised to check flight schedules regularly and stay in touch with airlines.
The disruption in Pakistan reflects a broader shock to global aviation, as heightened tensions in the Middle East – a critical transit corridor linking Europe, Asia and Africa – force airlines to reassess route safety and operational viability.
Aviation analysts have warned that even limited airspace restrictions could trigger cascading disruptions around the world. Airlines are increasingly diverting flights to avoid sensitive areas, increasing travel times, increasing fuel consumption and complicating crew and aircraft scheduling.
Major carriers have already adjusted operations, with some suspending routes and others relying on longer, more expensive flight paths. Industry bodies such as the International Air Transport Association and the International Civil Aviation Organization continue to issue risk advisories, prompting airlines to recalibrate their operations in real time.
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The financial impact is expected to be significant. Prolonged instability could drive up airfares, reduce flight frequency and reduce seat availability, particularly during peak periods like Eid.
For passengers, the disruption has meant uncertainty, with cancellations, delays and last-minute changes becoming more common. Travel experts advise flexibility as airlines adapt to rapidly changing conditions.
Despite continued coordination between aviation authorities and carriers to maintain safety and continuity, the situation highlights the sector’s vulnerability to geopolitical shocks, particularly in regions that serve as essential hubs for global air traffic.
