One-China policy: Pakistan bars Taiwan carriers from airspace: report

Pakistan has closed its airspace to Taiwanese airlines, citing its One-China position, Business Recorder reported, based on Bloomberg’s coverage. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif told Bloomberg that Pakistan permits mainland Chinese airlines to cross its skies. The restriction has prompted Taiwanese carriers to adjust some routes.

Bloomberg cited Flightradar24 data showing China Airlines Ltd. and EVA Airways Corporation had not crossed Pakistan since the morning of October 25. At least 12 flights between Asia and Europe operated by the carriers have instead travelled over Russia since Sunday. Pakistan has repeatedly backed Beijing’s position on Taiwan and opposed its participation in international bodies, including the World Health Organization.

The change concerns international airline routes and connects Pakistan’s aviation policy with the transport sector, although no PSX-listed company is identified in the report.