Thousands of flights disrupted by closure of Pakistan's airspace

Geoffrey Thomas

By Geoffrey Thomas Thu Feb 28, 2019

Thousands of flights have been delayed, disputed or canceled by the closure by Pakistan of its airspace for commercial flights after tensions escalated with India. Its airports will only be used for "military purposes" until the airspace is reopened for commercial activities. Pakistan airspace lies directly in the path on the major air route between southern Asia and Europe and many flights are already at the limit of their range - particularly in the northern winter with stronger headwinds. READ Call for a levy to search for MH370 Flights have been diverted south of Pakistan across the Arabian Sea putting more pressure on the heavily used corridor. Pilots are not able in many cases to get the levels they want because of the congestion increasing fuel burn. Some flights have been forced to land to get extra fuel while others will take longer to get to their destination. Many airlines have also canceled services. Passengers are urged to check with their airlines.  

Have questions or want to share your thoughts?

Comments

No comments yet, be the first to write one.

Latest news and reviews

View more
US aviation safety under scrutiny – what the data really shows
Airline News

US aviation safety under scrutiny – what the data really shows

Apr 2, 2026

Josh Wood
Delta A330 engine fire forces emergency landing
Airline News

Delta A330 engine fire forces emergency landing

Mar 31, 2026

Sharon Petersen
London to New York: how BA, Virgin, JetBlue, United, Delta, and Norse compare
Airline News

London to New York: how BA, Virgin, JetBlue, United, Delta, and Norse compare

Mar 30, 2026

Josh Wood
India opens its latest airport amid growing passenger demand: Noida International Airport
Airline News

India opens its latest airport amid growing passenger demand: Noida International Airport

Mar 30, 2026

Dev Lunawat

Featured articles

View more
US aviation safety under scrutiny – what the data really shows
Airline News

US aviation safety under scrutiny – what the data really shows

Apr 2, 2026

Josh Wood
World's Best Airlines for 2026 by Airline Ratings
Airline News

World's Best Airlines for 2026 by Airline Ratings

Mar 18, 2026

Airline Ratings
World's Best Airline Cabin Awards 2026
Airline News

World's Best Airline Cabin Awards 2026

Mar 18, 2026

Airline Ratings
Delta A330 engine fire forces emergency landing
Airline News

Delta A330 engine fire forces emergency landing

Mar 31, 2026

Sharon Petersen