Following the Iran-Pakistan confrontation, a record reduction in flights using Pakistani airspace has been recorded. Sources informed that, the number of flights using Pakistani airspace reached 450. While, on normal days, 700-750 flights pass through Pakistani airspace daily. Due to the Iran-Pakistan tensions, flights using Pakistani airspace have decreased by 50%.
The airlines pay the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority in dollars for using Pakistani airspace. The reduction in flights will have a negative impact on revenue generation. In view of the ongoing tension with Iran, all Pakistani airlines have been instructed to avoid using Iranian airspace.
All Pakistani airlines, including PIA from Saudi Arabia and UAE, have been directed to enter Pakistan via the Arabian Sea using the Muscat route. Foreign airlines are also avoiding passing through Iranian airspace to enter Pakistani airspace, Pakistan Air Traffic Control is guiding all foreign and domestic airlines for safe passage.