Pakistan’s airspace has been closed until 12pm on May 11, according to an announcement from the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) on Saturday, following heightened military tensions with neighboring India.
This precautionary measure is a direct response to the ongoing escalation at the Line of Control (LoC) and the recent military actions taken by both nations. Pakistan’s armed forces launched Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, targeting multiple Indian military sites in retaliation for India’s violation of Pakistan’s airspace.
The PAA’s decision to close the airspace affects all types of flights, including domestic and international travel. Passengers were asked to vacate Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, and foreign nationals at the airport were moved to local hotels. The remaining passengers were advised to return home until flight operations resume.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s security forces intercepted a drone near Sukkur Airport, confirming further threats to the nation’s airspace. The interception follows recent missile strikes by India targeting Pakistani airbases, which Pakistan’s military responded to by downing Indian aircraft and missiles.
In response to the missile attacks on Pakistan’s military installations, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) was reported to have safely protected all of its assets. Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, confirmed that Indian missiles targeted key Pakistani airbases, including Nur Khan in Rawalpindi, Murid in Chakwal, and Shorkot, but assured that no damage was done to PAF equipment.
General Chaudhry issued a stern warning to India, stating, “Now just wait for our response,” emphasizing Pakistan’s readiness to defend itself. He also noted that India had extended its attacks beyond Pakistan’s borders into Afghanistan, further intensifying the situation.
Pakistan has vowed to take all necessary steps to ensure its defense against India’s ongoing provocations, and the closure of the airspace reflects the seriousness of the current security concerns. The government has stated that Pakistan will not be intimidated by India’s actions and is prepared to respond with full force.
