ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is observing Air Force Day today with national pride and enthusiasm to pay tribute to the martyrs and veterans of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) who sacrificed their lives in defence of the country’s airspace.
Special ceremonies, prayer gatherings and various programmes are being held across the country to honour the PAF personnel who demonstrated exceptional courage, dedication and sacrifice in defending the homeland.
President Zardari’s Message
In his message on the occasion, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to the Pakistan Air Force, saying the nation takes pride in its professional capabilities and outstanding performance in aerial conflicts over the decades.
Message from Asif Ali Zardari, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Pakistan Air Force Day
On the historic occasion of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Day, I appreciate all personnel of the PAF for their outstanding performance all along and pay tribute to Shuhada for their… pic.twitter.com/RlzFvP0txF
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) September 6, 2026
He said the PAF, in coordination with the other armed forces, played a decisive role during the confrontation with India in May 2025 and effectively demonstrated Pakistan’s defence capabilities.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Message
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, praised the professional capabilities of PAF officers and personnel, saying the force had demonstrated exceptional performance at various stages of its history and established its strength on the aerial battlefield.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s Message on Pakistan Air Force Day, 7 September 2026.
On the historic occasion of Pakistan Air Force Day, I commend all ranks of Pakistan Air Force for their outstanding performance through out its professional history.
Pakistan Air…
— Prime Minister’s Office (@PakPMO) September 7, 2026
The prime minister said the PAF had a proud tradition of sacrifice, courage and professionalism, and its personnel had always responded to the nation’s call with determination and bravery whenever the country faced a challenge.
Referring to the 1965 war, he said the courage, determination and sacrifices of Pakistani air warriors played a vital role in defending the country’s airspace. Several PAF personnel laid down their lives in the line of duty during the conflict.
The prime minister paid rich tribute to the martyrs, saying their sacrifices and services constituted an unforgettable chapter in Pakistan’s national history.
