Pakistan is facing significant financial losses as eight out of 33 airports in the country remain inactive, 24NewsHD TV Channel reported on Thursday.
According to sources within the aviation sector, the non-operational status of these airports is costing the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) millions every month, as flight operations have ceased at these locations, yet staff continue to be employed and receive salaries, adding to the financial burden.
The airports where flight operations have been suspended include Bannu, Dalbandin, Parachinar, Khuzdar, Rawalakot, and Muzaffarabad. Additionally, flight operations have been halted for years at airports in Saidu Sharif, Sehwan Sharif, and Sibi.
Despite this, a spokesperson for the Pakistan Airports Authority confirmed that these airports could still be used for flight diversions if necessary.
The spokesperson added that any airline could choose to resume operations at these airports at any time.
The PAA is committed to ensuring flight safety and maintaining the availability of the national air network across the country, the spokesperson concluded.
Reporter: Saeed Ahmad Saeed