Three Foreign Aircraft Stranded at Jinnah International Airport After Middle East Airspace Closure

Karachi:** Following the sudden closure of airspace due to the evolving situation in the Middle East, three foreign aircraft have remained parked at Karachi airport since February 28.

The stranded planes belong to Qatar Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia. Authorities confirmed that the aircraft have been stationed in the airport’s parking area since the disruption.

### 27 Flights Landed Amid Sudden Closure

According to sources from the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), a total of 27 aircraft transiting through Pakistani airspace were forced to land at Karachi airport on February 28 after the unexpected airspace shutdown. These included technical landings, diversions, and re-routed flights.

A PAA spokesperson stated that under guidelines of the International Civil Aviation Organization, operational crisis control centers (OCC) are activated at airports during emergencies. On February 28 alone, more than 15 aircraft were diverted to Karachi.

While 12 aircraft from various airlines departed after refueling and necessary arrangements, the three foreign planes remain parked at the airport.

### Revenue Generated Through Parking Fees

Officials noted that the arrival and extended parking of foreign aircraft have generated thousands of dollars in parking fee revenue for the PAA.

All passengers from the affected flights have been accommodated in hotels in Karachi since February 28. The respective airlines are arranging alternative travel options to transport passengers to their final destinations.

Authorities continue to monitor the regional situation, with further flight operations dependent on developments in Middle Eastern airspace.