Flights Back to Normal: Pakistan’s Airspace Fully Operational Again”

Karachi-Pakistan’s airspace has been fully reopened for all types of flights, according to an official announcement by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA). This development follows a breakthrough ceasefire agreement between Pakistan and India, brokered with the help of US diplomatic efforts. The airspace closure, imposed due to escalating military tensions between the two neighboring countries, had significantly impacted flight operations, forcing Indian airlines to reroute their international flights and incur additional fuel costs.

The recent tensions began when India launched missile strikes targeting three Pakistani air bases, prompting Pakistan to initiate Operation Bunyan-u-Marsoos, striking several Indian military targets. However, after urgent diplomatic efforts from the international community, both nations agreed to a ceasefire, effective from 4:30 p.m. The agreement has brought relief to thousands of passengers affected by the airspace closure and allowed airlines to resume optimal flight routes, reducing travel time and expenses.

All airports in the country are available for normal flight operations, the airport authority spokesperson said.

He also said that passengers were requested to contact the relevant airline for the latest schedule of their flights.

The restoration of Pakistan’s airspace comes hours after its closure was extended till 12pm tomorrow, May 11, for all types of flights, earlier.

The authority said that the airspace had been previously closed amid tensions between Pakistan and India at the Line of Control (LoC).

In the wee hours of Saturday, India had fired missiles at three air bases inside Pakistan, however, all assets of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) remained safe, a military spokesperson said.

Director General Inter Service Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry at a press conference confirmed that India fired the air-to-ground missiles at the Nur Khan base (Rawalpindi), Murid base (Chakwal) and Shorkot air base.

Later, Pakistan launched Operation ‘Bunyan-u,-Marsoos’, targeting multiple Indian military installations. In the wake of the escalation, global powers intensified diplomatic efforts, ultimately leading to a mutually agreed ceasefire.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed a US-backed ceasefire ceasefire and said that both sides agreed to halt hostilities starting 4:30pm today.

Dar, a seasoned politician, said Pakistan had always been open to a ceasefire but made it clear that any future aggression by India would be met with a firm response.

He extended gratitude to all countries that played a role in brokering the ceasefire, especially acknowledging efforts by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Dar added that diplomatic efforts had been ongoing throughout the day, which eventually led to the agreement today morning. “Pakistan has always worked for regional peace without compromising its sovereignty,” he remarked.

On the Indian side, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri also confirmed the ceasefire, reported Indian media. He said all military actions would be suspended and that Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) from both sides would hold talks on May 12.