UAE travel: Etihad Airways flights to Pakistan cancelled, face 15-hour delay

Abu Dhabi: UAE's flag carrier Etihad Airways is experiencing significant disruption to its Pakistan services today, with flights to Lahore facing delays of approximately 15 hours. The changes come "in response to the evolving regional situation," the Abu Dhabi-based carrier announced in a travel update.

The disruption follows similar action by other carriers; Dubai's Emirates also cancelled several flights to Pakistan due to the closure of northern Pakistan airspace.

The flights affected by the substantial delay on May 7 are:

EY288 from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Lahore (LHE)

EY289 from Lahore to Abu Dhabi

Etihad has also cancelled select services to Islamabad for the same day:

EY300 from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Islamabad (ISB)

EY301 from Islamabad to Abu Dhabi

Etihad advised that guests transiting through Abu Dhabi with connections to these affected flights will not be permitted to travel from their original departure point unless they have arranged separate onward travel from Abu Dhabi.

Etihad stated that this is an evolving situation and that all Pakistan operations remain subject to further changes or disruption. The airline is closely monitoring developments in coordination with the relevant authorities, reiterating that the safety of guests and crew remains their highest priority. Etihad expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to travellers.

Impacted passengers have also been advised to contact their booking agent or the airline to seek alternative travel options. The airline also recommended that passengers ensure their contact details are up to date via the "Manage Your Booking" section on their website to receive the latest flight updates directly.

India said its “Operation Sindoor” struck “terrorist infrastructure” in both Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, a major escalation pushing the rivaling neighbors to the brink of a wider conflict. Pakistan’s military said the attack killed at least 26 civilians, according to Reuters.