Karachi, March 26, 2026 (Agencies) – Pakistan is grappling with a significant disruption in Jet A-1 aviation fuel supplies, prompting the Pakistan Airports Authority to impose restrictions on fuel provision to foreign airlines at major airports.
According to an official Notice to Airmen (NOTAM A0147/26), effective from March 13 to March 31, fuel uplift at Jinnah International Airport and Allama Iqbal International Airport has been limited for foreign carriers, while domestic operators such as Pakistan International Airlines continue to receive full allocations. Aviation sources indicate the restrictions are likely to be extended beyond the current deadline.
The curbs have already begun affecting flight operations. Foreign airlines are being forced to carry additional fuel from origin airports, a practice known as tankering, which increases aircraft weight and reduces cargo and passenger capacity. In one reported incident, a Karachi to Doha flight was diverted to Muscat for refueling earlier this week. Limited fuel availability has also been reported at other airports, including Islamabad.
The crisis has been compounded by a sharp rise in fuel prices. Jet A-1, which previously cost around Rs166 per litre, has surged to as high as Rs388 per litre, marking an increase of more than 130 percent. Industry experts note that aviation fuel typically accounts for 30 to 40 percent of airline operating costs, amplifying the financial strain on carriers.
Beyond Karachi and Lahore, several airports including Islamabad, Peshawar, Sialkot, Multan and Faisalabad are reportedly operating with constrained fuel supplies, while Quetta remains relatively unaffected.
Officials attribute the shortage to disruptions in crude oil and refined product supply chains linked to the ongoing conflict in the Persian Gulf region. Authorities are said to be reviewing fuel stocks on a daily basis, with the possibility of extending restrictions without prior notice.
Analysts warn that unless regional supply chains stabilize, the situation could worsen, potentially leading to more flight disruptions and operational challenges for airlines operating in and out of Pakistan.