ISLAMABAD: A special repatriation flight operated by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) successfully brought home 107 Pakistani nationals who had been stranded in Iran due to the recent closure of Iranian airspace. Flight PK-9552, a government-authorised charter, landed safely at Islamabad International Airport at approximately 3:00 AM on Wednesday after departing from Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan.
According to a PIA spokesperson, the special flight was launched on the directives of the Government of Pakistan in response to escalating regional tensions that have disrupted civilian air traffic over Iran. The closure of Iranian airspace, linked to rising security concerns in the Middle East, has forced several international airlines to reroute or suspend operations through the region. As a result, many Pakistani citizens, including workers, students, and travellers, found themselves stranded and unable to return home through conventional means.
In light of these developments, the affected Pakistani nationals were transported overland from Iran to neighbouring Turkmenistan. The Pakistani embassies in both Tehran and Ashgabat played a central role in facilitating this effort. Embassy officials coordinated closely with local authorities to ensure the safe passage of the group, arranged temporary accommodation, and provided food, medical assistance, and necessary travel documentation.
Upon arrival in Pakistan, the returning passengers expressed deep gratitude to the Government of Pakistan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and PIA for their timely and compassionate response. Many of them praised the operation as an example of effective crisis management and the enduring role of the national airline in standing by its citizens during emergencies.
One passenger, speaking to local media, said, “In a time of uncertainty, seeing the Pakistani flag on the aircraft brought immense relief. This mission proves that no matter where we are, the nation is there to support us.”
The PIA spokesperson emphasised the airline’s longstanding commitment to serving Pakistanis across the globe. “PIA has a proud legacy of participating in humanitarian missions and emergency evacuations—from war zones to natural disaster areas. We will continue to fulfil this responsibility wherever and whenever needed,” the spokesperson said.
This successful repatriation highlights not only the importance of efficient diplomatic coordination but also the role of national institutions in protecting overseas Pakistanis. It follows a tradition of emergency responses carried out by PIA and the Government of Pakistan in previous global crises, including during the COVID-19 pandemic and earlier geopolitical conflicts in the region.
As tensions in parts of the Middle East remain unpredictable, Pakistani authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to closely monitor the situation and ensure that the safety and welfare of Pakistani citizens abroad remain a top priority.
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