In a travel advisory, the second in less than 45 days, the State Department referred to a recent advisory of the Federal Aviation Administration, which cautioned pilots of commercial airlines about the risks to civil aviation operating in Pakistan, particularly at low altitude, during the arrival and departure phases of flight, and when on the ground, due to extremist or militant activity.
"The Department of State warns US citizens against all non-essential travel to Pakistan," said the travel advisory which was issued yesterday.
"Pakistan continues to experience significant terrorist violence, including sectarian attacks," the State Department said adding that targeted attacks against government officials, humanitarian and non-governmental organization (NGO) employees, tribal elders, and law enforcement personnel are common.
"Throughout Pakistan, foreign and indigenous terrorist groups continue to pose a danger to US citizens. Evidence suggests that some victims of terrorist activity have been targeted because they are US citizens. Terrorists and criminal groups have resorted to kidnapping for ransom," the travel advisory said.
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Americans travelling to Pakistan should also minimise the number of US or western nationals congregating in any one location at any time, and avoid hotels that do not apply stringent security measures.
"Take a photo of your passport, entry stamp and Pakistani visa, and keep it with you at all times. Keep digital copies of these documents in a secure, electronically accessible place," the advisory said.
The advisory, however does not prohibit US operators or airmen from operating in the specified area, as it is strictly an advisory notice.
"While there have been no reports of man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) being used against civil aviation in the territory and airspace of Pakistan, some extremist/militant groups are suspected of having access to MANPADS," FAA said.
FAA said that additionally, cross-border tensions in the Kashmir region were elevated in August to September 2016 due to extremist/militant activity, and operators should be alert to the possibility of temporary airspace restrictions issued by the air navigation service providers responsible for managing that airspace.
In June 2014, extremists/militants attacked Jinnah International Airport (OPKC) in Karachi, resulting in over 30 deaths and damage to airport facilities.
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