All Airlines Including PIA Flights to Skardu and Gilgit Cancelled Due to Sensitive Border Watch Along LOC

ISLAMABAD: In a major travel disruption affecting Northern Pakistan, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has cancelled all flights to Skardu and Gilgit due to heightened military vigilance and border monitoring near the Line of Control (LoC). The abrupt cancellation impacts both local and international tourists who had scheduled trips to the scenic northern areas.

This decision comes amid increased security concerns following the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) interception of four Indian Rafale fighter jets in the airspace over Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). According to official sources, Indian aircraft were forced to retreat after PAF's swift and strategic response on the night of April 29–30.

Flights Cancelled by PIA to Gilgit and Skardu

The PIA flights to Skardu and Gilgit were grounded as a preventive measure following military developments and credible intelligence indicating potential conflict escalation. The suspended flights include both departures from Islamabad and return flights from the northern cities.

List of Cancelled PIA Flights (April 30, 2025)

The cancellation of these flights directly affects both domestic travelers and international tourists, many of whom had planned their summer trips in advance, relying heavily on PIA's Skardu flight schedule for accessibility.

Heightened Military Activity Triggers Suspension

The PIA flights to Gilgit and Skardu were suspended after four Indian Rafale jets conducted a patrolling mission within Indian airspace near the LoC. Pakistan Air Force’s timely action forced the jets to retreat, preventing a possible escalation.

Timeline of Events Leading to Flight Cancellations

April 29, Night: Indian Rafale jets patrol IIOJK airspace.

April 30, Early Hours: PAF detects and confronts Indian jets.

April 30, Morning: Ministry of Information issues alert on possible Indian aggression.

April 30, Noon: PIA cancels flights to Gilgit and Skardu due to national security concerns.

Security sources confirmed that the cancellations were recommended after intelligence agencies reported possible military action by India within the next 24 to 36 hours.

Official Government Response

Minister for Information and Broadcasting Atta Tarar released a video statement confirming the intelligence alerts. He warned that India might attempt to initiate hostilities under the false pretext of the Pahalgam incident.

“Pakistan will respond decisively to any aggression. The nation stands united in defense of its sovereignty,” — Atta Tarar

Tarar emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to peace and diplomacy but assured that the military is fully prepared for any eventuality.

Impact on Tourism and Local Economy

The cancellation of PIA flights to Skardu and Gilgit not only disrupted travel plans but also dealt a blow to the local tourism sector, especially during the peak season.

Key Tourist Destinations Affected

Skardu: Gateway to K2, Shigar Valley, and Deosai Plains

Gilgit: Base for trips to Hunza, Fairy Meadows, and Naltar Valley

With PIA being the main carrier offering direct flights to these destinations, the halt in air operations will significantly affect bookings and tourism-related businesses in the region.

PIA Skardu Flight Schedule Under Uncertainty

Due to the ongoing tensions, PIA’s Skardu flight schedule for the coming week remains uncertain. Travelers are advised to regularly check the airline’s website or contact PIA customer service for the latest updates.

What Travelers Need to Know

Full Refunds or Rebooking: PIA is offering full refunds or rebooking options for affected passengers.

Customer Support: A dedicated helpline has been set up to handle cancellations and rescheduling.

Next Flight Updates: Further decisions will depend on regional security assessments.

PIA Flights: An Essential Link to the North

PIA flights to Skardu and Gilgit are a crucial link between the rest of the country and the isolated northern regions. The mountainous terrain makes air travel a faster and safer option compared to road travel, which can be treacherous and time-consuming.

Why PIA Flights Are Critical for Northern Access

The cancellation thus highlights the strategic importance of air connectivity, especially in times of national security challenges.

International Reaction and Media Attention

International media outlets have begun reporting on the incident, with concerns about escalating tensions between two nuclear-armed neighbors. Many foreign embassies in Pakistan have also advised their citizens to avoid travel to the northern areas until the situation stabilizes.

Future Outlook and Possible Flight Resumption

As of now, there is no official statement on when PIA flights to Gilgit and Skardu will resume. Analysts believe the situation may improve if diplomatic efforts succeed in de-escalating tensions.

Next Steps Being Considered

Continued surveillance by PAF along the LoC.

Ongoing coordination between the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and PIA.

Situation review every 12 hours by National Security Council.

What Should Passengers Do Now?

For those affected by the PIA flights cancellation, here are some recommendations:

Checklist for Affected Travelers

✅ Contact PIA at 111-786-786 for booking support.

✅ Check emails and SMS alerts for flight status.

✅ Avoid traveling to airports without confirmation.

✅ Keep travel documents ready for any last-minute schedule updates.

✅ Monitor news updates from credible sources.

The cancellation of PIA flights to Skardu and Gilgit amid heightened border tensions underscores the fragile security dynamics of South Asia. While national security remains the utmost priority, the situation has brought into sharp focus the region’s reliance on a single airline—PIA—for essential connectivity.

Travelers, locals, and businesses alike await the resumption of services, hoping that diplomatic channels will prevent any escalation and allow for the restoration of normalcy.