Pakistan has reportedly barred Taiwanese airlines from using its airspace in support of Beijing’s One-China policy, forcing some flights between Asia and Europe to take alternative routes.
According to a Bloomberg report, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Pakistan’s aviation sector follows the One-China policy and that only airlines from mainland China are permitted to fly over Pakistani territory.
The report said aircraft operated by Taiwan’s two major carriers, China Airlines and EVA Airways, had not flown over Pakistan since the morning of October 25, 2026. Data from flight-tracking platform Flightradar24 showed that at least 12 flights operated by the two airlines between Asia and Europe had used Russian airspace instead since Sunday.
The route changes could increase flight times and fuel costs for some services, although the report did not specify the additional time or cost for individual flights.
Bloomberg described the move as a first-of-its-kind measure. It also noted that Pakistan’s reported restriction appears stricter than mainland China’s approach, as China still permits Taiwanese airlines to fly over its territory.
Beijing considers Taiwan part of China, while Taiwan operates under its own government. Pakistan severed official diplomatic relations with Taiwan in 1951 and has consistently supported Beijing’s position on the issue.
According to the report, China Airlines and EVA Airways declined to comment. Taiwan’s Civil Aviation Administration did not directly explain the route changes.
It remains unclear what prompted Pakistan to introduce the restriction at this time or how long it will remain in effect. The development highlights the influence of diplomatic policy on international aviation routes and reflects Pakistan’s close strategic relationship with China.
