Malaysian carriers reroute flights, cancel services amid India-Pakistan tensions
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian carriers have rerouted and suspended several international flights following the temporary closure of Pakistani airspace, triggered by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) said two Europe-bound flights operated by Malaysia Airlines – MH2 to London Heathrow and MH22 to Paris Charles de Gaulle – were rerouted on May 6 to avoid Pakistani airspace.
"Both flights completed a brief refuelling stop in Doha and have since departed to continue their respective journeys," MAG said in a response to Business Times' query.
The group also announced a temporary suspension of Malaysia Airlines flights to and from Amritsar, India until May 9, in line with the closure of Amritsar Airport from May 7-9 due to ongoing security and operational concerns in the region.
"The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority. We are monitoring the situation closely and will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure safe and reliable operations," the group said.
A spokesperson added that MAG will continue to evaluate the situation before deciding whether to resume flights through Pakistani airspace, even after its reopening.
Pakistan closed its airspace for 48 hours starting May 7, amid increased military and geopolitical friction with India.
Batik Air Malaysia has also taken precautionary measures, suspending services between Kuala Lumpur and Lahore, Pakistan and Amritsar on May 7 and 8.
The affected flights include OD131 and OD132 to and from Lahore, as well as OD271 and OD272 to and from Amritsar.
"The safety and well-being of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority. Batik Air is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with relevant authorities and will provide timely updates as new information becomes available," the airline said in a statement.
AirAsia Malaysia has also suspended services to Amritsar, stating that all flights to and from the Indian city will be temporarily halted until May 9 due to the closure of the airport.
The carrier's long-haul affiliate, AirAsia X Bhd said it is continuing operations with slight adjustments, including rerouting certain routes to avoid the affected airspace.
"AirAsia X is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to follow all necessary safety procedures, as the safety of our guests and crew remains our utmost priority," the airline said.
Checks by Business Times on FlightRadar24 on May 7 showed Pakistani airspace devoid of commercial aircraft movements.
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