Pakistan to resume intl flight operations

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan will resume its international flight operations from Friday night after the government eased some of the restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, according to a notification issued by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on Friday.

"As per decision of the Federal Government, the outbound international flights operation has been allowed with effect from 23:59 (local time) tonight," the notification said.

Both national and foreign airlines will be allowed to operate from all international airports of Pakistan with exception of the country's southwest Gwadar and Turbat airports, said the notification.

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, said the CAA, adding that disinfection of aircraft will be ensured and no congestion at airports will be allowed.

Pakistan has suspended international flight operations since March as part of the safety measure to stem the spread of COVID-19. Earlier on May 16, Pakistan resumed domestic flight operations in a phased manner.