The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has rejected media reports claiming a surge in overflight traffic and daily earnings of around $800,000 due to tensions in the Middle East.
Several reports suggested that the deteriorating security situation in the region forced international airlines to alter flight routes, leading to a 15 percent increase in traffic over Pakistan’s airspace. According to those reports, more than 700 flights were passing through daily, boosting the authority’s revenues.
However, the PAA clarified that the reported 15 percent rise is incorrect. The authority stated that there was only a temporary increase in air traffic after regional tensions, which was efficiently managed by air traffic controllers.
Before the escalation, Pakistan’s airspace handled around 650 overflights daily, and such fluctuations in traffic are considered routine, the authority added.
The PAA also explained that overflight revenue depends on several factors, including the number of flights, flight distances, and navigation charges.
It stressed that claims of a permanent increase in overflights or multi-million-dollar earnings are mere speculation. The authority reaffirmed that Pakistan’s airspace remains safe and fully operational for international flights.
Meanwhile, Etihad Airways has announced the resumption of its flights to Pakistan from March 6 to facilitate passengers amid the ongoing tensions in the Middle East following the Iran-Israel conflict.
The airline will restore operations to Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports.
Besides Pakistan, the carrier will also resume flights to more than 50 destinations worldwide, including cities in Europe, the United Kingdom, and Central Asia.
Etihad Airways has finalised its flight schedule for the period from March 6 to 19 to ensure safe and efficient travel despite the ongoing regional situation.
