Up in the air: Flights to and from Karachi cancelled at BKIA

Security on high alert in and outside airport.

PESHAWAR: The schedule for local and international flights fell into disarray following the brazen attack on Jinnah International Airport in Karachi late Sunday night, resulting in cancellation of four flights to and from the port city at Bacha Khan International Airport (BKIA).

According to flight enquiry, Air Indus flight IL602, which was scheduled to arrive in Peshawar from Karachi at 9:30am Monday, was delayed while IL603, which was supposed to depart for Karachi at 10:30am, was cancelled.

Similarly, NL191 of Shaheen Air International, due to land at Peshawar airport at 9:30am, was also delayed. Flight enquiry added NL192, scheduled to depart for Karachi at 10:15am, was cancelled.

Officials wishing not be named said the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has made all possible arrangements for passengers, adding security is on red alert in and outside Bacha Khan International Airport.

The airport’s manager, who has recently been transferred to Peshawar, could not be contacted for comments despite repeated attempts.

The country’s busiest airport, Jinnah International, was stormed by heavily-armed militants late Sunday night.

At least 28 people, including 12 terrorists, were reported dead in the siege which lasted till Monday morning.

According to reports, 10 ASF personnel, two Rangers officials, one police officer and three PIA officials are among the deceased. 26 people have been injured in the attack so far as well. 

Published in The Express Tribune, June 10^th, 2014.