Lahore airport to close daily for three hours as part of monsoon safety measures

CAA takes decision due to risk of bird strikes during rainy weather

LAHORE:

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced that Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore will be closed daily for three hours during the monsoon season.

According to a notice issued by the CAA, both runways at the airport will not be operational from 5:00 am to 8:00 am daily, starting from July 10 until September 10.

This decision aims to enhance flight safety and protect passengers from the increased risk of bird strikes during the monsoon season.

The CAA has notified all domestic and international airlines about the closure through NOTAM (Notice to Airmen). Emergency landing facilities will be available if needed.

Previously, the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) presented a progress report on the development and implementation of the Wildlife Hazard Management Plan.

According to the report, 61 aircraft from both foreign and national airlines were affected by bird strikes last year.

A spokesperson from PIA disclosed that the national carrier incurred significant financial losses due to bird strikes, with 39 incidents reported at domestic airports across Pakistan in the past six months.