Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport will close both of its runways for three hours every day from July 5 to September 15 as part of precautionary measures for the monsoon season.
The restriction will remain in place daily from 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM, affecting scheduled commercial flight operations during those hours. Flights will continue to operate outside the closure window.
The Pakistan Airports Authority said the decision had been taken because bird activity in and around Lahore airport, especially below 3,000 feet, increases significantly during the monsoon period.
A Notice to Airmen has also been issued in this regard.
The NOTAM says Lahore airport’s runways 36R/18L and 36L/18R will remain closed from July 5 until September 15 due to heavy bird activity persisting on and around the airfield. It also states that in case of an emergency landing, the runway may be made available at the discretion of the pilot.
The authority said pilots have been advised to exercise extra caution during approach and departure, while airlines have also been asked to carry sufficient fuel to manage any possible ground or airborne holding.
Officials maintained that the move is aimed at preserving aviation safety during a period when weather and environmental conditions tend to increase operational risk.
The runway closures come as a fresh monsoon spell is expected to begin across the country from the first week of July. Forecasts have already pointed to rain in Lahore from July 1 to July 6, indicating a wet start to the season in the provincial capital.
With the daily closure expected to continue for more than two months, early morning operations at Lahore airport are likely to face scheduling adjustments, even though authorities say the measures are necessary to reduce the risk of bird strikes at one of the country’s busiest airports.
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