Pakistan: Workers to protest at airports in multiple cities Sept. 4

Event

Unionized workers of the Civil Aviation Authority have called for day-long protests outside civilian airports across Pakistan Sept. 4. Organizers are denouncing the proposed privatization of some airport operations, and alleged mismanagement by the present director-general. Similar rallies in the past have attracted the highest participation at the Islamabad International Airport (ISB), Karachi's Jinnah International Airport (KHI), and Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE); dozens of participants have gathered outside or at affected airports. Flight disruptions are highly unlikely. The events are likely to pass off peacefully but may prompt localized road traffic disruptions and airport screening delays.

Authorities will likely monitor any demonstrations that materialize and may move to disperse overly disruptive crowds. Minor skirmishes between security forces and activists cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Allow additional travel time to and from airports, especially in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. Plan for potential screening delays at airports. Heed all official transport and security advisories.