Flights to Gilgit, Skardu Suspended Amid Rising Pakistan-India Tensions

ISLAMABAD (WEB DESK) — Flight operations to Gilgit and Skardu were suspended on Wednesday as Pakistan intensified airspace surveillance in response to emerging security threats, according to aviation officials.

Authorities described the suspension as a “temporary precautionary measure,” noting that the situation remains under constant review in light of the evolving regional security environment.

The development comes amid heightened tensions with India. In a statement late Tuesday, Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar disclosed that Pakistan’s intelligence agencies had received credible information indicating a potential military strike by India within the next 24 to 36 hours.

According to the minister, India is allegedly considering military action under the pretext of Pakistan’s purported involvement in the recent Pahalgam incident — claims Islamabad has strongly denied.

Tarar warned that any such aggression would have “catastrophic consequences for the entire region and beyond,” urging the international community to take notice of what he called reckless escalation.

In response to the threat, airspace monitoring has been significantly enhanced. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and relevant security agencies have implemented strict protocols, with special directives issued to air traffic control units across the country.

Sources confirmed that all foreign aircraft entering or transiting through Pakistani airspace are now subject to expanded monitoring, with particular scrutiny applied to flights originating from or routed through India.

Under the updated security measures, any aircraft exhibiting suspicious behavior or deviating from approved flight paths will require high-level clearance before being allowed to proceed. Aviation personnel have been directed to maintain maximum vigilance and enforce the protocols without exception.

The move is part of a broader national security initiative aimed at bolstering aerial defense readiness and ensuring swift response to any potential incursion.