Dense Fog in Karachi Today Halts Flight Operations at Jinnah International Airport
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Rida Shahid
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- Published January 15, 2026
Travelers at Jinnah International Airport faced major disruptions today as visibility dropped to just 50 meters. Severe weather conditions forced officials to suspend multiple flights, leaving hundreds stranded. Authorities advise all passengers to verify their schedules before leaving home as the early-season fog continues to impact travel across Pakistan.
Dense fog returned to Karachi early Thursday and disrupted normal life across the city. Authorities followed the situation as visibility dropped sharply around Jinnah International Airport, forcing them to suspend flight operations for nearly four hours. The airport later resumed operations as conditions improved.
During the suspension, airlines cancelled seven domestic and international flights. One Jeddah-bound Saudi Airlines flight, SV-700, remained airborne for nearly two hours before landing safely in Karachi. Airport officials confirmed delays to the arrival and departure of 36 flights as schedules struggled to recover.
Fog did not stay limited to the airport. Early morning commuters faced low visibility in Surjani Town, Scheme 33, Gulshan-e-Maymar, Bahria Town, and nearby areas. Traffic slowed as drivers moved cautiously through dense patches.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department said cold and dry conditions continue to trigger morning fog. Officials warned that these conditions may persist over the coming days, especially during early hours.
The poor visibility led to the temporary suspension of traffic in a number of routes in Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by motorway authorities. Authorities encouraged tourists to put off unnecessary trips.
In Lahore, foggy weather slowed down traffic at Allama Iqbal International Airport and on Canal Road, Mall Road, and Multan Road. Drivers complained of poor visibility and increased commuting hours during morning hours.
Airport officials advised customers to check the status of flights prior to travelling to terminals. Travelers also requested airlines to keep in touch with the booking offices to keep them updated.


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