Pakistan extends airspace ban on Indian aircraft for another year
By Tahir Shah :
Pakistan Airports Authority has extended restrictions on Indian aircraft using its airspace, marking one year since the ban was first imposed following heightened tensions between the two countries.
According to a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), Pakistan’s airspace will remain closed to all aircraft registered in India, as well as those operated, owned or leased by Indian airlines, including military flights.
The restrictions were originally introduced in April 2025 after an attack in Pahalgam in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir led to a sharp escalation in relations. India had accused Pakistan of involvement, an allegation Islamabad denied while offering support for an independent investigation.
The latest extension was issued shortly before the previous notice was due to expire on 24 April, signalling that the restrictions will continue for the foreseeable future.
Officials said the ban applies across both of Pakistan’s main flight information regions, covering airspace managed from Karachi and Lahore.
The continued closure has had operational and financial implications for Indian airlines, which have been forced to reroute flights to destinations in Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia. Industry analysts say the longer routes have increased travel times and fuel costs, adding pressure on carriers already facing high operating expenses.
Authorities in Pakistan have not indicated when the restrictions may be lifted, as bilateral tensions remain unresolved.
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