Pakistan has temporarily closed specific air traffic service (ATS) routes in the Karachi and Lahore flight information regions (FIRs), the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) announced in a recent Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). The closures are set to affect commercial operations from March 3 to March 31.
According to the NOTAM, certain route segments in the Karachi (OPKR) and Lahore (OPLR) FIRs will remain unavailable daily between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. Authorities cited “operational reasons” for the temporary restrictions but emphasized that measures are in place to ensure continued flight safety.
Officials confirmed that domestic and international flights will be redirected through alternative routes, allowing air traffic to remain functional during the closure hours. Airlines and pilots have been advised to follow updated routing instructions to minimize disruptions to schedules.
The move comes amid rising regional security concerns, as air operations in parts of South Asia have faced disruptions in recent days due to escalating geopolitical tensions. Aviation authorities stressed that the temporary route closures are precautionary and aimed at maintaining safety for both commercial and private aircraft.
Travelers have been advised to check with their airlines for updated schedules and potential changes to flight timings. Airspace officials confirmed that normal operations will resume outside the restricted hours, and further updates will be issued if additional adjustments are required.
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