PIA issues fog alert as nationwide flights disrupted

WEB DESK: Dense fog has enveloped several cities across the country, raising the risk of disruptions to flight operations, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) said on Saturday as it issued a nationwide fog alert for passengers.

According to a PIA spokesperson, poor visibility could lead to delays, rescheduling, or changes in flight operations at airports across Pakistan. Passengers have been advised to provide accurate and alternate contact numbers at the time of booking so they can be promptly informed of any changes to flight schedules.

The airline said travellers can contact the PIA call centre for updates and further guidance, urging passengers to stay in touch as weather conditions continue to affect aviation operations.

Bad weather disrupts flight operations in Lahore and Dubai

Flight operations faced major disruptions due to adverse weather conditions in Dubai and dense fog in Lahore, causing delays, diversions, and cancellations affecting both domestic and international travel.

According to airport officials, dozens of flights in Dubai were unable to depart due to severe weather and heavy rainfall, creating a ripple effect across regional air traffic. The situation was compounded in Lahore, where sudden dense fog late at night and during the early morning hours hampered landing and take-off operations.

At Allama Iqbal International Airport, more than 15 inbound and outbound flights were affected. Several international and domestic services experienced delays, while some incoming flights were diverted as visibility dropped sharply.

Officials said a SaudiGulf Airlines flight and a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight were diverted to Islamabad International Airport due to poor weather conditions in Lahore.

Outbound flights from Lahore, including those operated by SaudiGulf Airlines and other carriers, departed with delays ranging from one to four hours. Passengers reported long waiting times as airlines adjusted schedules in response to rapidly changing conditions.

The Pakistan Airports Authority said weather-related disruptions were continuing to affect flight schedules and advised passengers to check with their respective airlines before heading to the airport.

Authorities said operations would normalise once weather conditions improve, but warned that further delays could not be ruled out if fog and rain persist.