ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the suspension of several international flights and the termination of all passenger discounts, citing rising global oil prices and operational challenges. The announcement was made following a high-level meeting on Monday to address potential financial losses due to increased jet fuel costs.
According to an official statement, PIA has decided that only children and infants will continue to receive fare concessions, while all other discounts will be withdrawn. The decision aims to reduce the financial burden on the national carrier caused by rising fuel costs.
PIA further stated that flights to Beijing and Kuala Lumpur will be suspended from April 11 and April 14, respectively. In addition, flights to Gulf countries, with the exception of the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, will remain suspended until the end of April. The UAE route will continue operations but will be limited to 16 flights per week.
The airline explained that these measures are necessary due to the increase in jet fuel prices and disruptions caused by ongoing regional conflicts. The US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran have affected aviation across the Middle East, prompting airlines to avoid risky airspace.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for oil and petroleum products from Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and the UAE, has remained largely closed following Iranian attacks on maritime traffic. The situation has contributed to global oil price surges, impacting airline operations in Pakistan and abroad.
PIA officials said that while these administrative decisions are tough, the airline cannot pass the full burden of fuel price increases onto passengers. The carrier expects that once international oil prices stabilize, affected routes will be restored and normal operations resumed.
The announcement comes as airlines across the region adjust schedules and implement cost-cutting measures to maintain operational sustainability during a period of geopolitical uncertainty and fluctuating fuel costs.
PIA urged passengers to stay updated on route changes and ticketing adjustments and assured that it is closely monitoring the situation to resume full international operations as soon as feasible.
