PIA Suspends Flights to Four Gulf Countries Amid Middle East Tensions

PIA has reported that it will be temporarily closing down its flights to four important Gulf destinations  Dubai (UAE), Doha (Qatar), Kuwait City (Kuwait) and Manama (Bahrain)  as a result of increased security issues in the region.

In the wake of recent military actions which saw Iran pitted against Western powers we see large scale disruption to air traffic in the region. Reports out of the Gulf states that have been affected by missile attacks and other action are that they have either closed off their airspace or put out security alerts which in turn has made the situation very unstable for civilian air travel.

What Prompted the Flight Suspension?

According to initial reports an up rise in military action began after Western coalition forces hit what they thought to be nuclear sites in Iran. In retribution Iran is reported to have struck at U.S. military bases in Iraq and Qatar. These events have caused alarm in the Gulf Cooperation Council which in turn saw a number of members temporarily shut or limit access to their air space.

This rapid increase in tensions which in turn has affected commercial aviation. Reports say that in some nations like Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain they have put a full stop to all inbound and outgoing flights from certain areas and also have sent out Notams to alert airlines of the present risks.

A spokesperson for the PIA reported that the airline is very much at the forefront of this issue, which also means:.

“In light of the developing regional situation and the closure of airspace over parts of the Gulf, PIA has decided to temporarily suspend its scheduled services to Doha, Dubai, Kuwait, and Manama to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.”

The spokesperson reported that the national flag carrier is in touch with local aviation authorities and will review the situation as it goes along.

Impact on Passengers and Travel Plans

Flights out of Pakistan are at a standstill which affects large numbers of passengers including expatriate workers, business travelers and pilgrims going to or via Gulf countries.

PIA has very frequent service to Gulf destinations, in fact they operate out of Dubai and Doha which are the primary international routes for us. We have advised all passengers with confirmed bookings to get in touch with our customer care at 021-111-786-786 or head to the nearest PIA office for rebooking, cancellation, or any other info.

Many of our travelers have reported on social media about delays and cancellations. At the time of the announcement some were in the middle of their travel at the airports which in turn left them with uncertain alternative plans.

To support the affected passengers PIA has put in place flexible rescheduling options and full refunds which are penalty free. Also we have introduced a Special “Flight Disruption Desk” at major international terminals in Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi for real time assistance.

Response from Gulf Countries and International Airlines

Following the missile attacks and in the wake of regional events a number of Gulf states put out emergency alerts. In Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar authorities have placed the military on high alert also they are reporting to the public that all non essential travel should be put on hold.

Also in addition to PIA other international airlines such as EgyptAir and Kuwait Airways and also a number of European carriers have changed their flight plans which in turn means they have either rerouted or have stopped flying over the Gulf’s airspace.

Air navigation safety bodies like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and Eurocontrol also have issued warnings which we should pay attention to, that airlines must use great care in the planning of their flight paths near affected areas.

Embassy Advisories and Government Action

Pakistani embassies in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have put out warnings to which countrymen that they keep cool, avoid non-essential trips out, and to stay in touch with embassy hotlines for reports.

The Ministry of foreign affairs in Islamabad reports that they are very much on top of the issue and in constant touch with Pakistani missions overseas to report on the safety and welfare of citizens.

In the press conference the Foreign Office spokesperson reported:

We call on all Pakistani citizens in the Gulf to follow local advice, stay at home in high alert areas, and keep in touch with our consulates. We are working with PIA and other airlines to assist stranded Pakistanis as required.

Will Flights Resume Soon?

Presently we do not have a set timeline for the resumption of flights to affected countries. A PIA official reported that until the airline gets go-ahead from the Civil Aviation Authority of Pakistan (CAA) and the aviation regulators of involved Gulf states we will not see a return to service.

Aviation experts report that we may see airspace restrictions which may last from several days to a few weeks until they are lifted which will depend on how the geopolitical situation plays out.

Economic and Operational Implications

PIA which is at present tied up is going to see large scale financial impact which in turn is a result of the large volume of traffic on Gulf routes. These routes, which are a main source of PIA’s international revenue, play home to over 1.5 million Pakistani expatriates based in GCC countries.

The transport issue also includes problems in cargo which is reported to be the case with Dubai and Doha which we see as very large transshipment points for to and from Pakistan. Also we see delayed shipment of goods in which perishables and time sensitive materials are concerned to put at risk the economic bottom lines of export and import businesses.

Regional Outlook and Conclusion

The present increase in tension in the Middle East has put into play a new element of uncertainty for global air travel, in particular for airlines which operate in or through conflict affected areas. This situation also puts into relief how political  economic issues may instantly throw a spanner in the works of what may have been very routine travel operations.

PIA made what is very much a prudent and safe decision which in turn has put many passengers in a state of uncertainty. At present there is no resolution in sight which is why we advise travelers and their families to stay informed, be flexible, and very careful.

PIA reports that it is still dedicated to resume operations as soon as the go ahead is given and we also advise passengers that we appreciate their patience and understanding through this tough time.

For latest info travelers are to check in at PIA’s official website and social media.

Contact Information for Assistance:

• PIA Call Centre: 021-111-786-786
• PIA Website: www.piac.com.pk.
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan: Mofa.gov.pk.
• Pakistani Embassies Helplines (UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait).