Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways suspended flights to Pakistan and India due to escalating tensions after India’s airstrikes and Pakistan’s counterattacks. The move, amid airspace restrictions, follows widespread disruptions, with India halting 25 flight routes and 27 airports.
On May 8, 2025, Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways announced the suspension of flights to Pakistan and India, citing security concerns and airspace restrictions stemming from India-Pakistan tensions, per Reuters.
Emirates postponed all Pakistan flights until May 10, while Etihad cancelled services to Karachi (EY297), Lahore (EY285), and Islamabad (EY303) on May 6-7. Qatar Airways temporarily halted its Pakistan routes, prioritising safety. The airlines’ websites confirmed suspensions to cities like Sialkot, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar.
The disruptions follow India’s May 6 airstrikes on Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, killing 31 civilians, and Pakistan’s retaliation, downing five Indian jets and 25 Harop drones. India suspended 25 international flight routes crossing its airspace to Pakistan and closed 27 airports until May 10, cancelling over 430 flights, per The Times of India. Pakistan’s CAA extended closures of Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Sialkot airports until 6:00 PM.
Read: Pakistan Neutralizes 25 Israeli Made Indian Drones
The conflict, sparked by India’s unproven claim of Pakistan’s role in the April 22 Pahalgam attack, led to India’s “Operation Sindoor” and Pakistan’s robust response, per Business Standard.
According to The News International, Gulf airlines have rerouted flights over Oman and the UAE, leading to congestion, travellers are frustrated, with some speculating about potential further disruptions. Both the US and the UN have called for de-escalation, while airlines continue to monitor the volatile situation.
