The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has re-routed its Toronto-bound flight from Islamabad after facing difficulties in getting overflying clearance due to Russia-Ukraine conflict, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Friday.

The Toronto-bound PIA flight from Islamabad will be brought to Karachi first from where it will reach Toronto after flying over the European countries instead of Russia.

The PIA flight PK781, with more than 250 passengers, will depart from Karachi at 2pm (today).

The Russia-Ukraine conflict makes it difficult for the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to transfer money for flight overflying charges to Russia.

“Russia is facing difficulties to receive overflying payments due to global sanctions. The PIA is forced to take an alternative route,” a PIA spokesman said.

“The PIA flight from Islamabad to Toronto will use the air route of Iran, Turkey and Europe,” he added.

“The plane will be refueled in Karachi for a 17-hour non-stop flight,” he stated.

Reporter: Usman Javed Malik