The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has issued an official clarification following widespread media and social media claims alleging a “partial closure” of Pakistan’s airspace for commercial flights. The Authority emphasized that these reports are incorrect and misleading. In a statement released from its headquarters at Jinnah International Airport on Tuesday, the PAA explained that the Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) under reference A0134/26, linked to A0130/26, is a routine operational advisory. The NOTAM announces the temporary unavailability of select ATS route segments within the Karachi and Lahore Flight Information Regions during daily windows from 0400-1000 UTC (0900-1500 PKT), effective 3-31 March 2026. According to the Authority, these route segments have been temporarily closed from ground level (GND) to unlimited altitude (UNL) due to standard operational requirements. However, officials stressed that this does not amount to a closure of Pakistan’s airspace. “Pakistan’s airspace remains fully open, safe, and completely available for all civil aviation traffic,” the PAA stated, adding that commercial arrivals, departures, and overflights continue without any restrictions. Air traffic controllers and airport teams remain fully operational, and alternative routing options are already in place for any affected flight paths. The Authority urged media organizations and social media users to verify information through official PAA channels and avoid publishing sensational or inaccurate interpretations that could cause unnecessary concern among travelers and the general public. Reaffirming its commitment to transparency, safety, and high-quality aviation services, the PAA encouraged the public to follow its verified platforms or contact the official spokesperson for accurate updates.
PAA rejects reports of airspace closure
Published on: March 4, 2026 12:56 AM