Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has announced that Pakistan will suspend commercial overflight of its airspace for three hours each morning over the next two days, citing “operational reasons” linked to military preparedness near the border. The temporary closure will be in effect from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. on 28 and 29 October.
According to the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the authority, the restrictions apply specifically to the flight information regions of Karachi and Lahore. All commercial airlines and aviation companies have been informed in advance, with instructions to ensure flight planning adjustments during the restricted hours. Selected air routes within these regions will remain unavailable for civilian traffic during the closure.
Sources suggest that the timing of the decision coincides with military exercises being conducted across the border, and the move is being seen as a precautionary measure to maintain operational readiness.
Airlines and flight operators have been advised to plan alternate routes and adjust schedules accordingly. Aviation monitoring agencies have noted that both Karachi and Lahore FIRs often face short-notice operational restrictions during periods of heightened regional security or military activity.
The development highlights ongoing challenges faced by civil aviation in the region, where strategic drills and border-related tensions can lead to temporary route diversions and scheduling disruptions, impacting travel times and operational costs.
