KARACHI: Direct air travel between Kuwait and Karachi was restored on Monday, ending a 66‑day suspension triggered by regional instability and the ongoing US–Iran conflict that had severely disrupted flight operations across the Middle East and South Asia.
The first Kuwaiti airline flight since February 28, designated J9507, landed in Karachi carrying a limited number of passengers.
Officials confirmed that direct flights from Kuwait to Pakistan had remained suspended for more than two months, forcing travelers to rely on alternative routes. During the suspension, Kuwaiti carriers operated flights via Dammam Airport in Saudi Arabia to maintain partial connectivity.
The disruption, it may be recalled, stemmed from escalating tensions in the Gulf region following the outbreak of hostilities between the United States and Iran in late February. Heightened security concerns, restricted air corridors, and fluctuating passenger demand led to widespread cancellations.
Aviation authorities reported that, since February 28, more than 100 flights across Pakistan were cancelled due to administrative reasons and low passenger turnout.
The resumption of direct Kuwait–Karachi flights is seen as a cautious step toward normalizing operations, though industry insiders warn that regional volatility continues to pose risks. Airlines remain under pressure to balance passenger safety with financial viability, as the war’s ripple effects on air traffic and consumer confidence persist.
