Etihad resumes flight operations in Pakistan, with mandatory tests for passengers

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) carrier, Etihad will resume its flight operations in Pakistan from today (Thursday) onwards.

“Starting from July 16, you can travel from Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore via Abu Dhabi to worldwide destinations. Our planes will be landing at more than 50 destinations in July and August, connecting the world through our home in Abu Dhabi,” the airline said in a statement quoted Gulf News.

The airline will operate 12 flights per week in Pakistan i.e. seven from Lahore, two from Islamabad, and three from Karachi

However, in wake of coronavirus pandemic, international airlines have made coronavirus tests mandatory for passengers flying from Pakistan. Under which the travelers are required to take the corona test no earlier than 96 hours before boarding the flight.

According to new travel advisories issued by international airlines including the Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Emirates, a negative Covid-19 test will now be the pre-requisite for passengers traveling from Pakistan.

The travel advisory has been issued keeping in view the increasing number of coronavirus cases across the globe.

It is pertinent to mention that routine international flights were suspended in Pakistan on Mach 21 as part of the precautionary measures to stem the spread of COVID-19. However, in June, the government opened all international flights with 25 percent capacity in a bid to expedite the process of bringing back stranded Pakistanis.