Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport will temporarily close both of its runways for three hours every day from July 5 to September 15 as part of precautionary measures aimed at ensuring flight safety during the monsoon season. The daily closure will remain in effect from 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM, a period when bird activity around the airport is expected to be at its highest. Scheduled commercial flights during these hours are likely to be adjusted, while operations outside the closure window will continue as normal.
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) said the decision was taken after assessing seasonal conditions that significantly increase bird movement in and around the airport, particularly below an altitude of 3,000 feet. Such conditions raise the risk of bird strikes, which can pose serious safety threats to aircraft during takeoff and landing. Authorities said the temporary closure is intended to minimize these risks and ensure safe flight operations throughout the monsoon period.
A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has also been issued to inform airlines and flight crews about the operational changes. According to the notice, Lahore airport’s runways 36R/18L and 36L/18R will remain closed daily during the specified hours due to persistent bird activity on and around the airfield. However, the NOTAM clarifies that in the event of an emergency landing, a runway may be made available at the discretion of the pilot and airport authorities.
The aviation authority has instructed pilots to exercise additional caution during approach and departure from Lahore airport. Airlines have also been advised to carry sufficient reserve fuel to accommodate any potential delays caused by ground or airborne holding during the restricted hours. Officials emphasized that these precautionary measures are part of standard aviation safety practices during periods of increased environmental and weather-related risks.
The runway restrictions coincide with the arrival of a fresh monsoon spell expected to affect much of Pakistan from the first week of July. Weather forecasts have already predicted rainfall in Lahore from July 1 to July 6, with additional showers likely in the following weeks. Monsoon conditions often lead to increased bird activity as changing weather patterns and standing water attract birds to areas near airports, making flight operations more challenging.
With the daily runway closures set to continue for more than two months, airlines operating early morning flights may need to revise schedules to minimize disruptions for passengers. Despite the temporary inconvenience, aviation officials maintain that the measure is essential to reduce the possibility of bird strikes and maintain the highest safety standards at one of Pakistan’s busiest international airports during the peak monsoon season.
