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Pakistan temporary suspends international flights

Amid COVID-19 outbreak, Pakistan suspends all international passenger, chartered and private flights from 21 March to 4 April 2020.


The WHO has declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Most of the countries have now reported cases of COVID-19. The Government is making all-out efforts to deal with a rapidly evolving situation which is a challenge, not only for Pakistan but the whole world. Proactive, comprehensive and coordinated steps continue to be taken to curtail the spread of COVID-19, to ensure safety and security of our nationals and people travelling to and from Pakistan. 

As the situation evolves, the Government continues to review the measures/arrangements in place, including the WHO recommendations to keep its population safe. 

Against this backdrop and after carefully examining all options, the Government of Pakistan has decided to suspend operation of all international passenger, chartered and private flights to Pakistan, effective from 21st March 2020 (2000 hrs PST) to 4th April 2020 (2000 hrs PST). This is a temporary suspension imposed due to exceptional circumstances. Upon resumption of international passenger, chartered and private flights to Pakistan, RT-PCR test certification from points of origin will not be mandatory.   

Diplomats and special / cargo aircraft are exempted from the conditions above. However, they will be subjected to appropriate health screenings on arrival. They can also be isolated/quarantined as per advice of health professionals. 

The Government of Pakistan is fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of its people. COVID-19 is a global challenge entailing a global response. Individual responsibility is critical for collective security. Your safety lies in keeping others safe.