PAA Announces Daily Runway Closures at Lahore Airport

News Desk 

Islamabad:The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has announced temporary daily runway restrictions at Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore during the monsoon season to reduce the risk of bird strikes and enhance flight safety.

According to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), both runways will remain closed for routine flight operations from 5:01 am to 8:am (Pakistan Standard Time) each day from July 5 to September 15, 2026, when bird activity around the airport is at its highest.

The authority said bird movement in and around the airport, particularly below 3,000 feet, increases significantly during the monsoon, posing a greater risk to aircraft during take-off and landing.

Pilots have been advised to exercise extra caution during approach and departure, while airlines have been instructed to carry sufficient additional fuel to cater for any possible delays or holding patterns.

The PAA clarified that the temporary restrictions are part of its annual monsoon safety plan and are intended solely as a preventive measure to minimise the risk of bird strikes without causing major disruption to scheduled flight operations.

Commercial flights will continue to operate outside the restricted hours, while runway access will be made available immediately in the event of any emergency landing.

The authority said the seasonal operational measures reflect its ongoing commitment to ensuring aviation safety while maintaining efficient airport operations during the monsoon season.