PIA suspends its flight operations to several Gulf destinations amid escalating Middle East conflict
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Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has suspended its flight operations to several Gulf destinations in view of the evolving situation in the Middle East, a spokesperson for the airline announced on Saturday.
The decision came after the United States and Israel jointly launched strikes on Iran, pushing the Middle East into renewed military confrontation and further dimming hopes for a diplomatic solution to the West’s long-standing effort to denuclearise Iran, despite Tehran’s repeated assertions that it will not pursue nuclear weapons.
In response, Iran targeted Israel and US bases in the Middle East. Explosions were reported in Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Qatar.
According to the spokesperson, PIA’s flights to the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Doha and Kuwait have been temporarily suspended. The flights will remain inoperative at least until Sunday evening or until the restoration of normal airspace operations.
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In view of the developing situation in the Middle East, #PIA is suspending its flights to #UAE 🇦🇪, #Bahrain🇧🇭, #Kuwait🇰🇼 and #Doha 🇶🇦 till tomorrow evening, or till opening of respective airspaces.
Flights to #KSA 🇸🇦 have been rerouted, avoiding conflict hit zones.…Read More: Iran targets US bases in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and UAE after American, Israeli strikes
However, the national flag carrier’s flights to Saudi Arabia will continue, though their routes have been revised in light of the prevailing circumstances.
The spokesperson further stated that affected flights have been shifted to Boeing 777 aircraft and will operate via longer routes to ensure passenger safety.
Passengers have been advised to stay in contact with the airline for timely updates regarding their flights and any changes in bookings. The airline’s call centre can be reached at 021-111-786-786 for further assistance.
The PIA management reiterated that the safety of passengers and crew remains its foremost priority.