TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's premier international carrier EVA Air (長榮航空) continues to maintain its European flight schedule despite being forced to reroute aircraft, the airline's General Manager Sun Chia-ming (孫嘉明) confirmed on Thursday (May 8). Sun revealed that escalating tensions between India and Pakistan — characterized as the region's most severe conflict in more than 20 years — have resulted in Pakistani airspace closure, adding roughly 20 to 30 minutes to flight durations.
Officials at Taoyuan International Airport (桃園國際機場), Taiwan's main international gateway, reported that the airspace restrictions affect 13 flights in total. According to Sun, the disruption has caused minimal operational issues, with just a single EVA Air aircraft forced to make an unscheduled return to Vienna for refueling, while all other flights proceeded on their adjusted routes. Aviation authorities anticipate a review of Pakistan's airspace closure by Friday morning as diplomatic channels remain active.
Industry analysts suggest the ongoing geopolitical tensions could result in continued schedule adjustments and extended flight times for passengers traveling between Asia and Europe on multiple carriers. EVA Air representatives recommend that travelers monitor the airline's official website and mobile app for real-time updates, while airport officials advise arriving early for departing flights as contingency planning continues throughout the region. ★