KARACHI/ISLAMABAD: Pakistan said on Saturday its airspace remained “fully operational and safe” after Iran temporarily closed Tehran’s airspace following Israeli airstrikes launched earlier in the day that sharply escalated tensions in the region.
Israel says it has launched a “pre-emptive” attack against Iran, pushing the Middle East into a renewed military confrontation and further dimming hopes for a diplomatic solution to Tehran’s long-running nuclear dispute with the West. Reuters reported US strikes against Iran were also being carried out by air and sea.
In response to the strikes, Iranian aviation authorities announced temporary restrictions on civil flights over Tehran as a precaution amid the heightened security environment.
Iran issued an air navigation notice informing airlines that Tehran airspace would be closed to civil aircraft between 1130 and 1700 Pakistan Standard Time (PKT), prompting carriers operating east-west routes to assess alternative corridors.
Airspace closures in Iran affect a key transit route used by international airlines flying between Europe, the Middle East and Asia, potentially increasing overflight traffic through neighboring countries, including Pakistan.
“Air traffic control is fully prepared, and all operations are continuing normally, with no delays, restrictions, or safety concerns reported or anticipated at this time,” the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) said in a statement issued from its headquarters at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi.
The authority said the daytime closure window typically sees limited transit traffic but warned that any extension beyond 1700 PKT could result in increased rerouting.
“Should Iranian authorities decide to extend the NOTAM beyond 1700 PKT, we anticipate a noticeable uptick in overflight traffic rerouting through Pakistani airspace, primarily during the usual nighttime hours as airlines adjust long-haul international schedules to avoid the closed Iranian airspace,” the statement said.
The PAA added that it remained committed to maintaining “the highest standards of aviation safety and security” in coordination with national and international partners.
Separately, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a travel advisory for Iran.
“For their safety and security, Pakistani nationals are advised to avoid all non-mandatory travel to the Islamic Republic of Iran,” the Foreign Office said.
The ministry urged Pakistanis currently residing in Iran to “exercise caution, remain vigilant, minimize non-essential travel, and stay in regular contact with the Pakistani Missions.”
Pakistan has not announced any restrictions on its own airspace.
