Pakistan to resume international flight operations

Pakistan has announced plans to resume outbound international flight operations.

According to a notification issued by the country's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), services will be allowed with effect from 11:59 pm (Pakistan time) Friday.

Both national and foreign airlines will be permitted to operate from all international airports of Pakistan, with the exception of Gwadar and Turbat airports.

1/3. As per decision of the Federal Government, the outbound international flights (scheduled, non scheduled and charter flights) operation has been allowed with effect from 2359 hours tonight.

— PCAAOfficial (@official_pcaa) May 29, 2020

The restrictions on inbound passenger operations will continue, but diplomatic, special, and cargo flights to/from Pakistan will be allowed.

The CAA added that the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for outbound international flights have already been issued, according to which, airlines will be required to follow the SOPs of the destination country.

3/3. SOPs for outbound international flights have already been issued according to which airlines will be required to follow the SOPs of the destination country. Additionally, disinfection of aircraft will be ensured and no congestion at airports shall be allowed.

— PCAAOfficial (@official_pcaa) May 29, 2020

Pakistan has suspended international flight operations since March as part of the safety measure to curb the spread of COVID-19. 

Earlier this month, the country resumed domestic services in a phased manner.