On March 13, 2026, flight operations at Islamabad International Airport (IIAP) were temporarily stopped after reports of suspicious drone activity near the airport. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and airport security received information around 2:30 PM about small drones flying close to the runway and approach path.
All arrivals and departures were halted for about 50 minutes as a safety measure. Security teams, including airport police and air defense units, quickly searched the airspace and nearby areas. Two drones were spotted and forced to land outside the airport boundary. No drone entered the restricted airspace or came near any aircraft.
The suspension caused delays for 14 flights. Six incoming flights were diverted to Lahore and Peshawar airports, while eight departing flights waited on the ground. Passengers were asked to remain inside the terminal building. Normal operations resumed by 3:20 PM after the area was declared completely safe.
Airport officials confirmed there were no injuries, no damage to any plane, and no direct threat to aircraft. An investigation is now underway to find out who operated the drones and for what purpose. This is not the first time drones have caused concern near major airports in Pakistan.
Many passengers shared their frustration online about sudden delays and lack of quick updates. Others thanked the security teams for acting fast to keep everyone safe. Authorities have increased drone surveillance around the airport and asked people to report any strange flying objects immediately.
