Pakistan airspace fully operational and safe: PAA

Pakistan’s airspace remains fully operational and safe for all flight operations, the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) said on Saturday, even as Iranian authorities temporarily closed Tehran’s airspace for several hours.

As per NOTAM A0715/26 issued by Iranian authorities, Tehran airspace is currently closed to civil aircraft today between 1130 - 1700 Pakistan Standard Time (PKT), PAA said in a statement. This daytime window generally sees limited east-west transit traffic, it added.

“Should Iranian authorities decide to extend the NOTAM beyond 1700 PKT, we anticipate a noticeable uptick in overflight traffic rerouting through Pakistani airspace, primarily during the usual nighttime hours as airlines adjust long-haul international schedules to avoid the closed Iranian airspace.

“Air traffic control is fully prepared, and all operations are continuing normally, with no delays, restrictions, or safety concerns reported or anticipated at this time,” read the statement.

The statement comes after the US and Israel launched attacks against Iran on Saturday, pushing the Middle East into a renewed military confrontation and further dimming hopes for a diplomatic solution to Tehran’s long-running nuclear dispute with the West.

The attack, coming after Israel and Iran engaged in a 12-day air war in June, follows repeated US-Israeli warnings that they would strike again if Iran pressed ahead with its nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

The PAA said that it remains committed to the highest standards of aviation safety and security, and remains in close coordination with national and international partners.