The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has directed airlines operating from Pakistan to depart with minimum required fuel due to supply disruptions linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
In a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued on Saturday, the aviation authority warned that the availability of Jet Fuel A-1 has been affected by the prevailing regional situation. The directive advises airlines to refuel as much as possible at foreign airports to manage potential shortages within Pakistan.
The advisory will remain in effect until March 31, according to the PAA.
Jet Fuel Supply Disrupted
Officials said the measure was taken as a precaution after supply chains for aviation fuel were disrupted due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The issue has intensified following a recent surge in jet fuel prices in Pakistan. The government increased the price of aviation fuel by Rs154 per litre, pushing the rate from Rs188.93 to Rs342.37 per litre, marking an increase of about 82 percent — one of the largest hikes in recent years.
The price spike came after a US-Israeli strike on Iran and Tehran’s subsequent announcement regarding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
Temporary Flight Restrictions Announced
In a separate notice, the PAA also announced temporary operational restrictions for flights on March 16.
The authority said six sectors of the Lahore Flight Information Region will remain temporarily closed on that day.
Additionally, Islamabad International Airport will suspend commercial flight operations between 8:30am and 10:30am.
According to the notice, aircraft already in the air during the restricted period may be required to enter holding patterns before landing at the airport.
Airlines Told to Maintain Extra Reserves
The aviation authority has instructed aircraft captains to ensure adequate fuel reserves for flights that could face delays due to airspace restrictions.
Officials say the temporary measures aim to maintain safe flight operations while managing fuel availability during a period of regional instability affecting global energy supply chains.
