Skardu: In response to growing tensions between Pakistan and India, all ten scheduled flights to Skardu and Gilgit were cancelled on Tuesday, airport authorities confirmed.
The cancellations include multiple Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights, as well as services by private carriers. According to the flight schedule, two PIA flights each from Karachi and Lahore to Skardu — all operating under flight number 454 — were grounded. Two additional PIA flights from Islamabad to Skardu were also cancelled.
In addition to Skardu-bound services, four flights from Islamabad to Gilgit were also called off. Sources at the airport noted that two more private airline flights heading to Skardu from Islamabad are currently under review and may also face cancellation.
Airport officials cited security concerns as the primary reason for the decision. “Given the current regional situation and security advisories, it was deemed necessary to suspend operations to the northern areas today,” an official stated.
This comes amid heightened military and diplomatic tension following a deadly attack in Indian-Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and subsequent air activity near the Line of Control (LoC). Both Pakistan and India have ramped up their security postures in recent days.
The cancellation of flights to key northern tourist destinations raises concerns for travelers and tourism operators, particularly during the start of the summer season. Authorities have advised passengers to stay in contact with their respective airlines for further updates.
There is currently no official word on when flight operations to Skardu and Gilgit will resume, with decisions expected to hinge on regional developments and security assessments in the coming days.
