Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has temporarily suspended its flights to Turkey. This halt is expected to continue until at least October 13.
The decision comes due to unresolved payment issues related to inventory and airport slots, leading to the cancellation of all flights on this crucial route.
PIA operates four weekly flights from Islamabad and Lahore to Turkey. This suspension significantly impacts its international operations already strained by ongoing financial difficulties.
Passengers who had made reservations for flights to Turkey are urged to monitor updates from the airline for any information regarding rescheduling or refunds.
In a related move, PIA had previously suspended the use of Iranian airspace for all flights following missile strikes on Israel. Official orders confirmed that the airline is adjusting its flight schedules to avoid Iranian territory until the situation stabilizes.f
Typically, PIA utilizes two corridors over Iran: the northern route for flights to Canada and Turkey, and the southern corridor for destinations in the UAE, Bahrain, Doha, and Saudi Arabia.
In response to these developments, Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has enhanced airspace security, issuing new directives to increase surveillance on all flights entering Pakistani airspace from Iran and Afghanistan. The situation remains fluid as authorities prioritize the safety of air travel.