The continued closure has forced airlines from India to rework flight paths.
Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban on Indian Flights Till May 24, Airlines Face Longer Routes
Pakistan has prolonged restrictions on Indian aircraft using its airspace, ensuring that current curbs impacting flight operations will remain in force until May 24.
The extension, formalised through a fresh notice to airmen (NOTAM), comes just ahead of the earlier expiry date and keeps all Indian-registered, commercial, leased and military aircraft barred from entering Pakistani skies, according to officials familiar with the development.
The continued closure has forced airlines from India to rework flight paths, particularly on routes connecting Indian cities with destinations in Gulf Countries, increasing both travel time and fuel costs.
Aviation disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions are not new in the region. Similar restrictions were imposed during the Kargil conflict and after the Pulwama attack, reflecting a pattern of airspace closures during periods of heightened conflict.
The latest extension follows strained ties between the two countries after a militant attack in Pahalgam last year. While New Delhi blamed Islamabad for the incident, Pakistan denied involvement and sought an independent investigation, with both sides subsequently closing their airspace to each other’s carriers.
(With Inputs from PTI)
