ISLAMABAD: Pakistan flights rerouting via China is now impacting key international routes, notably PIA’s Lahore–Kuala Lumpur service. The shift, triggered by Pakistan’s exclusion from Indian airspace, has lengthened travel times by nearly three hours.
The PK898 flight from Lahore, once a swift 5-hour-31-minute journey, now endures an extended route of 8 hours and 24 minutes. This is due to a detour through Chinese airspace, bypassing India entirely. Previously, PIA’s Kuala Lumpur sector was the sole segment in its network using Indian skies. That privilege is now gone.
This change isn’t isolated. Experts suggest Pakistan flights rerouting may influence airline costs and scheduling efficiency. “Longer routes mean more fuel, more wear on aircraft, and tougher timetables,” notes aviation analyst Irfan Malik.
Interestingly, Indian airspace remains open to other international carriers, but not to PIA. While India hasn’t made a formal ban announcement, the ongoing geopolitical climate has effectively shut the corridor.
Meanwhile, passengers feel the pinch. Extended air time, possible delays, and higher fares could become the new normal for those traveling between Pakistan and Southeast Asia. For PIA, which already faces financial strain, such disruptions could ripple through its fragile recovery plan.
In addition, alternate routes could become congested, impacting not just PIA but other regional carriers that share similar paths. That poses risks for regional aviation dynamics.
While no official dialogue is underway to reverse the situation, stakeholders are watching closely. Until then, Pakistan flights rerouting will remain a logistical and symbolic marker of strained regional ties.
