UAE airlines Emirates and Etihad Airways have announced an extension of their flight cancellations to Pakistan. Emirates and Etihad extend flight cancellations amid the airspace closure with Pakistan, which follows the continued closure of Pakistani airspace due to ongoing tensions with neighboring India. The suspension, originally set to expire, has now been extended to May 12, according to an updated passenger advisory from Emirates.
The Dubai-based airline cited “ongoing uncertainty surrounding access to the country’s airspace and airports” as the reason for the extended suspension. Emirates released a list of cancelled flights between Dubai and major Pakistani cities. The affected routes include Lahore, Islamabad, Sialkot, Peshawar, and Karachi. Cancellations are scheduled from May 10 to May 12, with some return flights impacted on May 13.
Emirates urged passengers with cancelled bookings not to proceed to the airport. Emirates and Etihad extend flight cancellations to Pakistan and advise travelers to contact their booking agents or Emirates directly for alternative travel arrangements. The airline emphasized its commitment to assisting passengers during this disruption.
Etihad Airways also extended its suspension of flights to Pakistan. The Abu Dhabi-based carrier is coordinating with authorities to assess the situation. Both airlines are closely monitoring developments and plan to resume operations once the airspace reopens. The Emirates and Etihad decision to extend cancellations underscores the complexities involved in the current airspace situation.
The extension of flight cancellations marks yet another challenge for travelers between the UAE and Pakistan. Emirates and Etihad continue to prioritize passenger safety and clear communication as the situation unfolds.