Pakistan’s aviation authorities have issued a new advisory to airlines after growing concerns about jet fuel supply disruptions linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict. The Pakistan Airports Authority directed airlines operating from Pakistani airports to depart with the minimum required fuel in order to manage the limited availability of aviation fuel.
Officials released the instruction through a formal Notice to Airmen, warning that jet fuel supply challenges could affect flight operations in the coming weeks. The advisory explained that disruptions in the regional supply chain have reduced the availability of Jet Fuel A-1, the primary aviation fuel used by commercial aircraft.
Authorities say the situation developed due to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have affected global oil transport routes and fuel logistics. Since Pakistan imports a significant portion of its aviation fuel, any disruption in global supply chains directly impacts the country’s aviation sector.
Under the latest advisory, airlines must carefully manage fuel usage when departing from airports in Pakistan. Operators should carry only the minimum fuel required for safe operations when leaving Pakistani airports. Aviation officials also advised airlines to refuel at international destinations where fuel availability remains more stable.
ALSO READ: Pakistan Increases Jet Fuel Prices Sharply
Jet fuel supply concerns prompt aviation advisory
Industry experts say this measure will help protect domestic jet fuel supply and ensure that airlines can continue operating flights without major interruptions. By limiting fuel loading at local airports, authorities aim to distribute available jet fuel supply more efficiently among all airlines operating in the country.
The aviation advisory will remain effective until March 31, according to the Pakistan Airports Authority. Officials say they will continue monitoring the jet fuel supply situation and may extend or revise the advisory depending on developments in global energy markets.
Subheading: Rising jet fuel prices add pressure on airlines
The jet fuel supply concerns emerged shortly after Pakistan recorded a major increase in aviation fuel prices. Authorities recently raised the price of jet fuel by Rs154 per litre, one of the sharpest increases in recent years.
Following the increase, the price of Jet Fuel A-1 jumped from Rs188.93 per litre to approximately Rs342.37 per litre. The dramatic rise reflects growing volatility in global oil markets caused by geopolitical tensions and supply uncertainty.
Experts believe that higher jet fuel prices could place additional financial pressure on airlines operating in Pakistan. Fuel expenses represent one of the largest operational costs for airlines, and sudden increases can significantly affect profitability.
Airlines may respond by adjusting ticket prices, reviewing route profitability, or implementing fuel-saving measures to manage rising operating costs. Aviation analysts say airlines often optimize flight planning and weight management to improve fuel efficiency during periods of high fuel prices.
Subheading: Middle East tensions disrupt global oil routes
The jet fuel supply challenges largely stem from the escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Following military developments in the region, Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global oil shipments.
The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant share of the world’s crude oil and refined fuel shipments. Any disruption to this route can quickly affect global energy supply chains and increase fuel prices worldwide.
Energy analysts warn that continued instability in the region could cause further disruptions to oil transport, which may influence jet fuel supply in many countries, including Pakistan.
Subheading: Temporary flight restrictions at Islamabad and Lahore
In addition to the jet fuel advisory, aviation authorities also issued a separate notice regarding flight operations at major Pakistani airports. The Pakistan Airports Authority announced temporary restrictions affecting parts of the Lahore Flight Information Region.
According to the notice, six sectors of the Lahore airspace will remain temporarily closed for a specific period on March 16. These restrictions will affect some commercial flight operations within the region.
Authorities also announced a temporary suspension of takeoffs and landings at Islamabad International Airport between 8:30 am and 10:30 am on the same day. The restrictions may require aircraft already in the air to remain in holding patterns before receiving clearance to land.
Officials instructed airline captains to maintain sufficient reserve fuel to handle possible delays during the restricted period. Aviation authorities say these measures will help maintain safety while managing air traffic efficiently.
The aviation sector continues to monitor the evolving jet fuel supply situation and global developments closely. Authorities say they remain prepared to introduce additional measures if fuel availability or regional security conditions change in the coming weeks.
