Taoyuan Airport Grapples with Flight Disruptions Amidst India-Pakistan Conflict

Travelers Face Delays and Cancellations as Tensions Escalate, Impacting Taiwan's Aviation

Taipei, Taiwan - Flight operations at Taoyuan International Airport are experiencing disruptions due to the escalating conflict between India and Pakistan, according to airport data released today. This situation is impacting travel to and from the region, causing delays and cancellations for passengers.

As of Thursday, a total of 13 flights at Taoyuan Airport have been affected. Data shows that three flights have been canceled entirely, while ten are experiencing delays. The airport authorities have stated that flight paths for aircraft traveling from Taiwan to Europe have been adjusted to mitigate the impact.

The flight delays and cancellations, primarily affecting routes to Pakistan and India, are a direct result of the ongoing hostilities between the two nations. The situation has intensified in recent days, leading to significant airspace restrictions.

Pakistan announced a 48-hour airspace closure, followed by a full closure of its airspace to commercial flights at major airports in Lahore and Islamabad. Meanwhile, multiple airports in India have also been closed, as reported by international news outlets.

These closures stem from escalating tensions between India and Pakistan in the past weeks. The conflict intensified following an attack in Kashmir, where gunmen caused the death of 26 people, mostly Indian tourists.

India has placed blame on Pakistan for the attack, while Pakistan denies the claim.

In response, India launched retaliatory military strikes against Pakistan, targeting militant groups and “terrorist infrastructure.” Pakistan, however, disputes India’s account, stating that civilians were killed and mosques were hit during the strikes, and they also claimed they shot down five Indian Air Force jets.

Taiwanese carrier China Airlines (CAL) has issued guidelines for passengers who may be affected by the flight disruptions. Passengers holding tickets for CAL flights between Taiwan and Europe, booked to travel after May 6, who are impacted by cancellations or delays exceeding two hours, can rebook their flights free of charge.

The free changes apply only if the route and flight class remain unchanged, according to CAL. Furthermore, the handling and service fees will be waived.

Passengers who choose to cancel their flights will receive full refunds, including payments for seat selection and extra luggage, the airline confirmed.