UAE-based Emirates suspends flight to Peshawar

At least one International carrier today suspended its operations from northwestern city of Peshawar following a terror attack at a army-run school that left at least 132 students and nine staffers dead.

UAE-based Emirates announced to halt flights in and out of Peshawar, sparking fears that more companies may follow the suit.

"We can confirm that we are suspending our flights to Peshawar for operational reasons. This will take effect immediately (from 16 December) until further notice," it said in a statement.

But the services to Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, and Sialkot will continue to operate as planned.

The online effort for booking a ticket for Peshawar on its webpage pops up the following message: "Emirates has suspended its services to Peshawar until further notice for operational reasons. We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our customers."

"Customers are advised to contact their travel agent or Emirates Call Centres for rebooking options, and visit the website for further updates."

Earlier, major Middle Eastern airlines called off operation in Peshawar after militants attacked a Pakistan International Airlines flight in September while landing in the city.

However, they later resumed the services.

Peshawar is a key destination for airline operation from Middle East as several thousand people from the area work in the Gulf region.