KARACHI: Karachi flight operations faced serious disruption on Sunday as poor weather and low visibility forced airlines to cancel and delay several domestic and international flights from Jinnah International Airport. According to airport officials, at least ten flights were cancelled, while many others were pushed back by several hours, creating inconvenience for passengers across multiple cities.
Among the most affected was PIA flight PK-302 from Karachi to Lahore, which was originally scheduled to depart at 8am but was delayed by nearly five hours due to visibility concerns. Karachi flight operations involving major carriers such as Emirates, Airblue, and Air Sial were also impacted, as aircraft movements were slowed to ensure passenger safety under challenging weather conditions.
The disruption in Karachi flight operations had a ripple effect across the country. In Lahore, three flights from Allama Iqbal International Airport were cancelled, while others faced extended delays. The return leg of PIA flight PK-302 from Lahore to Karachi was rescheduled for late afternoon, while PIA flight PK-306 experienced a five-hour delay before departing for Karachi late at night.
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Karachi Flight Operations Hit as Weather Disrupts Air Travel Nationwide
Karachi flight operations were not the only ones affected. In Multan and Islamabad, flights operated by Saudi Arabian Airlines and Air Sial were delayed by several hours. Similarly, a PIA flight from Peshawar to Sharjah saw its departure pushed to late evening as weather conditions continued to disrupt scheduling and aircraft rotations.
Aviation authorities stated that low visibility remained the primary reason behind the disruption in Karachi flight operations, stressing that safety protocols required cautious handling of takeoffs and landings. Weather patterns during winter often create fog and haze across major airports, leading to such interruptions despite operational readiness.
Passengers were advised to stay in close contact with their respective airlines and regularly check updated schedules. Airport officials also recommended arriving early and allowing extra time for security and boarding procedures as Karachi flight operations gradually normalize.
The situation highlights how weather-related challenges continue to affect Pakistan’s aviation sector, especially during seasonal transitions. Until conditions fully improve, Karachi flight operations are expected to remain vulnerable to sudden delays and cancellations.
