ISLAMABAD: Senior politicians from both the ruling and opposition parties were among several passengers who missed a flight to Skardu after road blockages near Islamabad Airport caused major disruptions on Saturday.
According to Beyond Time News, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Khawaja Saad Rafique and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Asad Qaiser were unable to board their scheduled flight after traffic came to a standstill due to police-imposed road closures.
The incident sparked criticism from political leaders and stranded passengers, who questioned the management of traffic around one of the country’s busiest airports.
Saad Rafique Criticizes Traffic Management
Khawaja Saad Rafique said he arrived at Islamabad Airport on time to travel to Skardu for the PML-N’s election campaign in Gilgit-Baltistan.
However, he claimed that road blockages created by Rawalpindi police prevented passengers from reaching the airport terminal in time.
“I reached the airport within the required time, but the roads leading to the airport were blocked,” Rafique said.
He further alleged that authorities failed to provide a clear explanation for the traffic restrictions, leaving passengers stranded for hours.
Several Passengers Miss Flight
Rafique stated that at least 13 passengers missed the Skardu-bound flight because of severe traffic congestion and what he described as poor coordination by airline staff.
According to him, the airline closed boarding procedures before the scheduled departure time despite the unusual traffic situation outside the airport.
As a result, passengers who had arrived in the airport vicinity could not complete the boarding process.
After waiting for hours and attempting to resolve the issue, the affected travelers eventually returned home.
The former federal minister described the situation as an example of administrative negligence and poor planning.
Asad Qaiser Raises Concerns
Former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser also reported missing the same flight while traveling to Skardu for PTI’s election campaign activities.
He said the road closures caused difficulties not only for political leaders but also for ordinary travelers heading to the airport.
Qaiser criticized the restrictions and argued that such disruptions create unnecessary hardships for the public.
Furthermore, he claimed that political parties other than PTI continue to conduct election campaigns without facing similar challenges.
Gilgit-Baltistan Election Campaign Intensifies
The missed flight comes at a crucial stage in the Gilgit-Baltistan election campaign, with political parties increasing their activities ahead of polling day.
The region is scheduled to hold elections on June 7, 2026. Therefore, party leaders from across Pakistan have been traveling to various districts to address rallies, meet supporters, and promote their candidates.
Skardu remains one of the most important political centers in Gilgit-Baltistan, making campaign visits particularly significant during the final days before the vote.
Questions Raised Over Airport Access
The incident has renewed concerns about traffic management and access to Islamabad International Airport during periods of heightened security or road closures.
Travelers have frequently called for better coordination between law enforcement agencies, airport authorities, and airlines to minimize disruptions and prevent passengers from missing scheduled flights.
Meanwhile, affected passengers continue to seek explanations regarding the circumstances that led to the traffic blockade and subsequent travel delays.
FAQs
Why did passengers miss the Skardu flight?
Passengers reportedly missed the flight because police road blockages near Islamabad Airport caused severe traffic congestion.
Which political leaders were affected?
PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique and PTI leader Asad Qaiser were among the passengers who missed the flight.
How many passengers reportedly missed the flight?
According to Khawaja Saad Rafique, at least 13 passengers were unable to board the flight.
Where were the leaders traveling?
Both leaders were traveling to Skardu to participate in election campaign activities ahead of the Gilgit-Baltistan elections.
When will the Gilgit-Baltistan elections take place?
The Gilgit-Baltistan elections are scheduled for June 7, 2026.
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