Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace, as the restriction approaches one year since it was first imposed. Authorities confirmed that the curbs will remain in effect until 5:00am on May 24, 2026, following a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM).
Continued Restrictions on Indian Aircraft
According to the Pakistan Airports Authority, the ban applies to all Indian-registered, leased, commercial, and military aircraft. This means Indian airlines will continue to reroute flights, avoiding Pakistani airspace entirely.
The restriction was first implemented on April 24, 2025, and has been extended multiple times since then, reflecting the lack of improvement in bilateral relations between the two countries.
Background: Rising Tensions Between Neighbours
The airspace closure came amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and India following the Pahalgam incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). India blamed Pakistan for the attack, an allegation Islamabad rejected while calling for an independent and transparent investigation.
In the aftermath, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, prompting Pakistan to respond with reciprocal measures, including the closure of its airspace to Indian carriers. India later imposed similar restrictions on Pakistani airlines.
Impact on Aviation Industry
The continued ban has had a significant impact on Indian airlines, which have reportedly faced losses amounting to billions of rupees. With access to Pakistani airspace blocked, flights—especially those traveling to Europe and North America—have been forced to take longer routes, increasing fuel costs and travel time.
On the other hand, Pakistani aviation has experienced relatively limited disruption, as its international flight routes are less dependent on Indian airspace.
Kremlin Urges Continuation of Iran Talks, Warns Against Regional Escalation
Military Escalation and Ceasefire
Tensions escalated further in early May 2025, when India launched strikes on multiple locations in Pakistan. In response, Pakistan carried out a large-scale military operation known as “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos,” targeting Indian military installations.
The confrontation lasted for several days before a ceasefire agreement was reached on May 10, 2025, reportedly with the involvement of the United States. While active hostilities subsided, diplomatic relations have remained strained.
Not the First Airspace Closure
This is not the first time Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian flights. Similar measures were taken during the 1999 Kargil conflict and the 2019 Pulwama crisis, both of which also led to disruptions in regional aviation.
Ongoing Uncertainty
Despite the passage of time, there has been little indication of a near-term resolution. The continued extension of the airspace ban suggests that tensions remain unresolved, with aviation restrictions serving as one of the visible consequences of the broader political standoff.
For now, airlines and passengers alike will continue to adjust to longer routes and higher operational costs as the situation evolves.
