The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) issued a directive on Saturday instructing all airlines operating from Pakistani airports to carry only the minimum required amount of jet fuel for their flights. This decision comes as a direct response to ongoing supply chain challenges triggered by the escalating conflict in the Middle East, which has severely impacted the availability of jet fuel A-1 in the region.
In an official Notice to Airmen (Notam), the PAA highlighted the disruptions caused by the volatile geopolitical situation, which has led to significant constraints in jet fuel supplies. The advisory urges airlines to adjust their fuel loading strategies accordingly, emphasizing the need to minimize fuel carried from Pakistani airports while encouraging operators to refuel as much as possible at foreign airports en route to their destinations. This measure aims to mitigate the risk of fuel shortages and ensure the continuity of flight operations despite the strained supply environment.
The current Notam concerning jet fuel availability is set to remain active until March 31, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding the duration of the Middle East crisis. It is worth noting that this development follows a recent sharp increase in jet fuel prices within Pakistan. Just days before the advisory, the government raised the price of jet fuel by Rs154 per litre, pushing the cost from Rs188.93 to an unprecedented Rs342.37 per litre—an approximate 82% hike. This steep price surge is attributed to the heightened tensions after the US-Israeli military action against Iran and Iran’s subsequent decision to close the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a crucial artery for global oil shipments.
Meanwhile, the PAA also released a separate Notam addressing commercial flight operations at Islamabad and Lahore airports scheduled for March 16. this notice, six sectors within the Lahore Flight Information Region will be temporarily closed on that day. Additionally, Islamabad International Airport will suspend all commercial takeoffs and landings between 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. This temporary closure is expected to affect flight schedules and requires pilots to plan for additional fuel reserves to accommodate potential holding patterns or diversions during the restricted timeframe.
These precautionary steps underscore the challenges faced by Pakistan’s aviation sector amid a complex international environment. Airlines are being urged to carefully manage their fuel logistics and flight planning to navigate both the supply shortages and operational restrictions. The situation remains fluid, and authorities continue to monitor developments closely to safeguard the safety and efficiency of air travel within and beyond Pakistan’s airspace.
