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DUBAI/DOHA/ISLAMABAD: Gulf-based carriers, including the UAE’s Etihad Airways and Emirates, along with Qatar Airways, have temporarily suspended flight operations to and from Pakistan following the closure of Pakistani airspace amid rising regional tensions.
This precautionary move has been implemented due to ongoing airspace restrictions, and airlines have advised passengers to expect further disruptions as the situation develops.
Etihad Airways Cancels Multiple Flights
Etihad Airways confirmed on its official website that several flights scheduled for May 8 have been canceled in response to the continued airspace closure. The affected routes include major cities in Pakistan:
- Abu Dhabi ↔ Islamabad (EY300 / EY301, EY302 / EY303)
- Abu Dhabi ↔ Lahore (EY288 / EY289, EY284 / EY285)
- Abu Dhabi ↔ Karachi (EY294 / EY295)
Flights EY296 and EY297, connecting Abu Dhabi and Karachi, are still planned to operate but remain subject to airspace availability and final clearance.
Etihad has assured affected passengers that alternative travel arrangements are being facilitated. Travelers are encouraged to monitor flight updates through Etihad’s official website, mobile application, or contact center at +971 600 555 666 for the latest information.
“The safety and well-being of our guests and crew is our top priority,” the airline said, adding that it is closely coordinating with aviation authorities as the situation unfolds.
Emirates Extends Suspension Until May 10
Dubai-based Emirates has also announced a suspension of its flights to Pakistan, extending the halt until May 10. The airline attributed the disruption to ongoing airspace uncertainty and airport access limitations.
A statement from Emirates expressed regret for the inconvenience and assured passengers that real-time updates would be provided through its travel advisory page.
The following Emirates flights have been canceled:
Dubai – Lahore – Dubai
- EK623 (May 8)
- EK622 / EK623 (May 9)
- EK624 / EK625 (May 9–10)
Dubai – Islamabad – Dubai
- EK612 / EK613 (May 8–10)
- EK614 / EK615 (May 9–10)
Dubai – Sialkot – Dubai
- EK620 / EK621 (May 8–10)
- EK618 / EK619 (May 8–9)
Dubai – Peshawar – Dubai
- EK636 / EK637 (May 8–10)
Dubai – Karachi – Dubai
- EK600 / EK601 (May 8–10)
- EK602 / EK603 (May 8–9)
- EK606 / EK607 (May 8–10)
Passengers on connecting itineraries to Pakistan have also been advised that they will not be accepted for travel until further notice.
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Emirates has requested that travelers refrain from heading to the airport and instead contact booking agents or the airline directly for rescheduling or refund options.
Qatar Airways Suspends Flights via Official Channels
Qatar Airways confirmed similar disruptions to its Pakistan-bound flights, citing the Pakistani airspace closure as the cause.
The airline shared the update through its official social media channels, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), indicating flight suspensions and advising travelers to remain updated via its website or app.
Further Disruptions Possible
Airline authorities have underscored that the situation remains fluid, and additional changes to flight schedules could occur at short notice depending on further developments in the geopolitical landscape.
Also Read: India Closes Airspace to Pakistan Airlines Amid Tensions
Passengers booked on any GCC airline routes involving Pakistan are strongly encouraged to check for updates directly with their airline and not proceed to airports without confirmation of their flight status.
