Karachi, Pakistan – The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has placed Jinnah International Airport on high alert as thunderstorms, dust-laden winds, and moderate rainfall lashed Karachi on Wednesday, prompting emergency preparedness measures to safeguard flight operations .
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), a westerly weather system is affecting upper parts of the country and is expected to remain active until June 20, with moist currents from the Arabian Sea enhancing rainfall activity across Pakistan . Karachi and its surrounding areas are likely to experience dust storms and isolated showers as the system strengthens .
In response to the forecast, the PAA has directed airport management and operational staff to implement comprehensive precautionary measures . Key directives include:
- Moving parked fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft to secure locations where necessary .
- Securing loose equipment and materials on the airfield to prevent damage from strong winds .
- Conducting thorough inspections of electrical installations and cables to ensure all critical systems remain functional .
- Maintaining operational readiness of follow-me vehicles and verifying the serviceability of airfield lighting systems and pits .
The authority has instructed all relevant departments to closely monitor weather developments and ensure all precautionary measures are in place for uninterrupted and safe air traffic management .
The PMD noted that while the heaviest impact is expected in northern and central regions, Karachi could experience dust storms and isolated showers as the system strengthens . A newly reconstructed runway at Jinnah International Airport, completed in early 2026 at a cost of over Rs8 billion, has been upgraded to Category 4F standards, capable of handling wide-body aircraft such as the Airbus A380 under adverse conditions .
