Karachi flight disruptions caused by intense monsoon rains left thousands of passengers stranded on Tuesday. Severe thunderstorms, low visibility, and waterlogged roads created a travel nightmare, forcing airlines to cancel or delay dozens of flights. With stormy weather showing no signs of easing, operations at Jinnah International Airport struggled to cope with the pressure.
Stormy Weather Brings Operations to a Halt
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed that eight flights were cancelled and at least 20 others faced long delays. Heavy rain and strong winds battered the runway, while traffic jams on surrounding roads prevented passengers from reaching the terminal on time.
Thunderclouds reduced visibility, making landing conditions unsafe. Flight PK-456 from Skardu had to divert to Sukkur, while FZ-335, arriving from Dubai, was rerouted to Multan. Officials said such diversions would continue until weather conditions improved.
Read: Relief Efforts Intensify in Buner’s Flood-Hit Areas
International Flights Face Major Disruptions
Karachi, Pakistan’s busiest air hub, saw widespread disruption across international connections. Incoming flights from Jeddah, Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Colombo were delayed for hours. Airline sources confirmed that passengers remained onboard aircraft for extended periods as clearance for landing was repeatedly withheld.
A Serene Air service, ER-501, made two unsuccessful landing attempts due to gusty winds and torrential rain. The pilot eventually diverted back to Islamabad, leaving passengers disappointed and anxious.
Private airlines operating between Karachi and Dubai also cancelled two flights, citing safety concerns. Authorities reassured passengers that international operations would resume once conditions stabilized.
Domestic Routes Hit Hard
Domestic travel suffered equally. PIA cancelled flights on the Karachi-Islamabad (PK-308/309) and Karachi-Quetta (PK-310/311) routes, causing frustration among travelers with urgent commitments. Operations on the Karachi-Sukkur sector (PK-536/537) were also suspended due to flooding on the runway and low visibility.
Several other flights between Karachi and Islamabad were delayed both ways, forcing passengers to wait at the terminal for hours. Airlines struggled to manage growing queues as customer service desks faced heavy pressure.
Passengers Caught in Uncertainty
For many passengers, the chaos began before they even reached the airport. Flooded streets and traffic congestion across Karachi delayed travelers who were trying to catch early morning flights. Those who managed to reach Jinnah Terminal found departure boards flashing red with delay notifications.
Families with young children, elderly passengers, and those traveling for medical reasons faced the toughest challenges. Some passengers waited inside the terminal overnight, as further rain complicated the chances of rescheduled departures.
Airline staff tried to provide refreshments and updates, but many travelers complained about the lack of timely communication. Long lines formed at ticket counters as passengers demanded refunds or alternative bookings.
PIA Issues Passenger Advisory
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) acknowledged the disruption and urged travelers to remain patient. A spokesperson advised passengers to confirm their flight schedule by calling the PIA call center at 786-786-111 before leaving for the airport.
The spokesperson also reminded travelers to check road conditions, since waterlogging in Karachi was making it difficult to reach the terminal on time. “We deeply regret the inconvenience caused to passengers,” the statement read. “Our teams are working round the clock to restore operations as soon as possible.”
Safety Takes Priority Over Schedule
Civil aviation officials stressed that safety remained the top priority. With unpredictable winds, slippery runways, and poor visibility, pilots were instructed not to attempt risky landings. Airlines followed strict safety protocols, even if it meant long delays.
Meteorological forecasts warned that heavy downpours and thunderstorms could persist over the next 24 hours. Authorities advised airlines to prepare for continued disruptions and passengers to expect possible schedule changes.
Karachi Airport Under Pressure
Jinnah International, already stretched by high passenger volumes, faced additional stress during the crisis. Ground staff struggled to manage rerouted planes and handle baggage. The airport’s limited drainage system also slowed down operations, as rainwater accumulated on taxiways.
Despite the challenges, airport authorities assured the public that efforts were underway to improve drainage and speed up flight clearances once weather conditions permitted.
Looking Ahead
As Karachi continues to battle extreme monsoon rains, passengers remain uncertain about travel plans. Airlines and authorities insist that normal operations will resume once conditions allow safe takeoff and landing. Until then, Karachi flight disruptions are likely to continue, testing the patience of travelers and the resilience of the aviation sector.
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