Reports circulating on social media claim that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has suspended flights to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The reports come amid rising regional tensions following attacks by Houthi forces.
A journalist has claimed that a PIA spokesperson confirmed the suspension. However, the development has not been independently verified.
Meanwhile, flight operations across Pakistan have faced significant disruptions amid growing security concerns in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. Airport sources reported that 42 flights were cancelled, while another 68 experienced delays.
The delays reportedly ranged from two to seven hours. Thousands of passengers have faced difficulties because of the disruptions, including people travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah.
Suspended Flights Cause Travel Disruptions
According to airport sources, several flights bound for Saudi Arabia were cancelled over security concerns. Operations at multiple airports across the kingdom were also reportedly affected.
The disruptions have created uncertainty for passengers with scheduled departures and arrivals. Many travellers have faced extended waiting times while seeking updates about their journeys.
The reports about suspended flights have also raised concerns among passengers travelling for religious purposes. Umrah pilgrims were among those affected by the cancellations of Saudi Arabia-bound services.
Passengers have been advised through airport updates to remain aware of changes to their travel arrangements. However, the reported suspension of PIA flights to Riyadh remains unverified.
Lahore Airport Records Highest Number of Cancellations
Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport recorded 13 flight cancellations, according to the figures provided by airport sources. Another 12 flights at the airport experienced delays.
Karachi Airport also reported substantial disruptions. Ten flights were cancelled, while 13 others were delayed.
At Islamabad International Airport, nine flights were cancelled and eight experienced delays. Multan Airport reported seven flight cancellations.
These figures highlight the impact of the disruptions across several major airports in Pakistan. Passengers at the affected airports have faced changes to their departure schedules and longer waiting periods.
Umrah Pilgrims Among Those Affected
The disruption has particularly affected travellers heading to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. Many pilgrims depend on scheduled flights to reach the kingdom for their religious journeys.
Cancellations and delays can create difficulties for passengers with planned accommodation, transport, and other travel arrangements. Travellers may also need to contact airlines or travel agents to confirm revised schedules.
The reports of suspended flights have added to uncertainty surrounding air travel amid regional tensions. However, the available information does not confirm that all PIA services to Riyadh have been halted.
Passengers Await Further Confirmation
The reported flight disruptions come as concerns continue over security conditions in the region. Airport sources have provided figures for cancellations and delays, but the reported Riyadh suspension still requires independent confirmation.
Passengers travelling to Saudi Arabia should check directly with their airlines before leaving for the airport. They should also confirm their flight status and any revised departure times.
Further verified information from PIA or relevant aviation authorities would clarify whether flights to Riyadh have officially been suspended. Until then, travellers should distinguish between confirmed airport disruption figures and unverified social media reports.
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