Monsoon and Flights in Pakistan
During the monsoon season, roughly July to September, thunderstorms and heavy rain can delay, divert or cancel flights across much of Pakistan. Flooding can also close roads to airports.
How the monsoon affects flying
- Thunderstorms: strong winds, heavy rain, lightning and hail. Aircraft avoid storm cells, which can mean detours and delays. See thunderstorms and turbulence.
- Low cloud and poor visibility: heavy rain reduces visibility at the airport.
- Windshear and gusts: a hazard for landings; see windshear and crosswind.
- Flooding: can affect access to airports and, in severe cases, operations on the ground.
Which areas
The monsoon affects the whole country in different degrees; the north and east are usually wetter. In the mountains, rain adds to landslide and road risk.
What to do
- Check forecasts and live weather: see the airport weather pages, such as Karachi.
- Allow extra time to reach the airport.
- Keep flexible plans, particularly for northern routes.
- Keep receipts in case your flight is disrupted; see what to do if your flight is cancelled.
On a tracker
Aircraft may be seen detouring around storm cells, or holding near the airport. See holding pattern.
The live map’s rain radar layer, where available, shows recent precipitation; see the live map.
General information only, not legal or safety advice. Details change; check with your airline and the relevant authority. See our editorial policy.