Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has suspended its flight operations to several Gulf countries, citing the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East, particularly the Persian Gulf region.
According to a PIA spokesperson, all flights from Pakistan to Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Dubai have been canceled until further notice. The move comes in response to the escalating war-like scenario in the region, following increased military tensions involving Iran and US forces stationed across Gulf nations.
“PIA’s flight operations have been restricted due to the situation in the Persian Gulf. This decision was taken in view of the safety and security of our passengers and crew,” the airline spokesperson said in a statement on Tuesday.
Bookings being rescheduled
PIA has assured passengers that its reservation department is actively working to rebook affected passengers on alternate flights once operations resume. The national carrier has also advised travelers to stay in touch with the PIA call center for timely updates on flight schedules and resumption plans.
“We deeply regret the inconvenience caused by these cancellations, but the safety of our passengers is our top priority,” the airline added.
Flight operations to the affected Gulf states will resume only once the regional security situation stabilizes, the airline clarified.
As a precautionary measure amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has diverted several of its flights to ensure passenger safety.
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An Islamabad-to-Dammam flight was turned back mid-route.
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Karachi–Madinah and Sialkot–Madinah flights were also recalled to their points of origin.
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Flight PF 768 from Islamabad to Riyadh was rerouted over the Gulf of Oman.
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Abu Dhabi-bound flight EY 295 from Karachi was diverted to Muscat.
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Flight EY 301 from Islamabad to Abu Dhabi was redirected to Karachi.
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EY 288 from Lahore to Abu Dhabi also landed in Karachi.
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Flight PF 732 from Lahore to Muscat was diverted to Karachi.
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Islamabad–Riyadh flight PA 274 was rerouted due to airspace restrictions.
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Bahrain's Gulf Air flight GF 753 from Karachi was diverted and landed in Muscat.
In total, more than 10 flights have been diverted to alternate airports amid the growing regional uncertainty. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will resume regular flight operations once it is deemed safe.
