Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has suspended its flights to the Gulf as air travel across the region faces major disruption due to the rapidly escalating Middle East conflict.
In a passenger advisory issued on February 28, 2026, PIA said that “in view of the developing situation in the Middle East,” it is suspending flights to the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait and Doha until tomorrow evening, or until the relevant airspaces reopen. The airline also said its flights bound for Saudi Arabia have been rerouted to avoid conflict-affected zones.
PIA has asked travelers to contact its call center at 021 111 786 786 for updated flight information and re-accommodation options.
The suspension comes as the region remains on edge following the sharp escalation that began with Israel’s strikes on Tehran, followed by the United States confirming its involvement, and Iran’s subsequent retaliation that has been linked to missile activity and heightened air defense alerts across multiple Gulf states.
Several countries in the region have responded by restricting or closing airspace, forcing airlines to cancel services or alter routes at short notice.
PIA is not alone. A growing number of international carriers have either paused flights to the Middle East altogether or trimmed operations to specific destinations, while others have diverted aircraft to avoid sensitive corridors.
The wave of cancellations and rerouting reflects a wider aviation safety response as airlines reassess routes amid shifting risk levels.
This is a developing situation, and flight schedules may change further depending on how long airspace restrictions remain in place. Passengers planning to travel to or through the Gulf are advised to confirm their status with airlines before heading to the airport.
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