Pakistan extends airspace ban on Indian aircraft until July 24
- Ban has been in place since April 2025 due to bilateral tensions
Pakistan has extended its airspace ban for Indian aircraft until July 24, continuing to force longer, costlier routes for Indian carriers amidst ongoing bilateral tensions.
- Initial reasons for the airspace ban.
- Impact on Indian airlines and operational costs.
- Lack of immediate reason for the latest extension.
Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian-registered aircraft from using its airspace until July 24, according to a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA).
Under the revised restrictions, Indian civil and military aircraft will remain barred from entering Pakistani airspace from 5:50pm on June 16 until 4:59am on July 24, the PAA said.
The ban applies to all aircraft registered in India as well as those operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines and military operators.
Pakistan initially closed its airspace to Indian aircraft in April last year amid heightened tensions between the two neighbouring countries following the Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The restriction has since been extended multiple times.
The continued closure forces Indian carriers operating westbound international flights to take longer alternative routes, increasing fuel consumption and operational costs.