Pakistan aviation sector reels

Pakistan's aviation sector and air travellers are facing disruptions as escalating tensions between Iran and the United States and the resulting closure of airspace across parts of the Middle East have thrown global air travel into disarray, with airlines facing soaring fuel costs, cancellations and longer routes.

Aviation sources said more than 52,000 flights had been cancelled following the closure of air routes in the Middle East, while global flight operations had declined by 50% to 60% amid heightened security concerns.

The crisis has dealt the aviation industry its biggest financial blow since the Covid-19 pandemic, aviation experts said, warning that prolonged disruption could force some airlines to suspend operations.

Pakistan has also been caught in the fallout, with passengers travelling from Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad facing flight cancellations, delays and higher fares as airlines adjust schedules and reroute aircraft to avoid affected airspace.

The disruption has also affected air connectivity between Pakistan and destinations in Europe and Asia, while airlines across the Gulf and Middle East have been forced to cut operations.

Aviation sources said jet fuel prices had risen by more than 65%, pushing up operating costs for airlines worldwide. The higher fuel bill is increasingly being passed on to passengers, who are now paying 30% to 35% more for air travel.

Around six million passengers have been directly affected by the Middle East crisis, according to aviation experts.

The closure or disruption of key air routes, coupled with concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, has also hit global trade. As traders increasingly turn to air freight to overcome delays in other modes of transport, air cargo rates have risen by 40% to 50%, adding to the financial burden on importers and exporters.