The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has issued a directive to all airlines operating within the country to carry only the minimum required amount of jet fuel when departing from Pakistani airports. This measure comes as a response to ongoing supply chain disruptions caused by escalating conflicts in the Middle East, which have significantly impacted the availability of jet fuel A-1 across the region.
In an official Notice to Airmen (Notam) released on Saturday, the PAA highlighted the challenges airlines face due to the limited supply of jet fuel, urging carriers to adjust their fuel loading practices accordingly. The advisory emphasizes that airlines should plan to refuel as much as possible at foreign airports to compensate for the constrained fuel stocks locally. This precaution aims to ensure uninterrupted flight operations despite the current fuel scarcity.
The directive is set to remain in effect until March 31, reflecting the authorities’ anticipation that the supply issues may persist for several weeks. This situation has unfolded against a backdrop of rising jet fuel prices in Pakistan, which recently saw a sharp increase of Rs154 per litre. This hike pushed the price from Rs188.93 to an unprecedented Rs342.37 per litre, marking an approximate 82% surge. Such a steep rise is among the highest recorded in recent years and has added further strain on the aviation sector.
The fuel price escalation followed a series of geopolitical events, notably the US-Israeli military action against Iran and Iran’s subsequent declaration to close the Strait of Hormuz. The strait is a vital maritime chokepoint through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply is transported, and its closure has sent shockwaves through global energy markets, directly affecting fuel availability and costs in Pakistan.
In addition to the fuel supply advisory, the PAA has also issued a separate Notam concerning flight operations at Islamabad and Lahore airports scheduled for March 16. The notice announced a temporary closure of six sectors within the Lahore Flight Information Region (FIR) on that day. Furthermore, commercial flights will be prohibited from landing or taking off at Islamabad International Airport between 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. This restriction requires pilots to carry extra fuel reserves to accommodate potential holding patterns or rerouting during the closure period.
These developments underscore the complex challenges facing Pakistan’s aviation industry amid regional instability and economic pressures. Airlines and airport authorities are working closely to manage operational disruptions while maintaining safety and efficiency. Passengers are advised to stay updated on flight schedules and prepare for possible delays during this period of heightened uncertainty.
