The restriction applies to aircraft operated, owned or leased by Indian airlines or operators, including military flights
Branding for Air India is seen on an Airbus A350-900 at the Farnborough International Airshow, in Farnborough, Britain, July 24, 2024. PHOTO: REUTERS
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) on Tuesday once again extended the ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace, marking a year of continuous restrictions following the Pahalgam incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Pakistan has kept its airspace closed to Indian aircraft since April 2025, when tensions between the two countries escalated sharply following an attack in Pahalgam.
New Delhi had alleged Islamabad’s involvement in the incident without providing any evidence. Pakistan denied the charge and offered to support a neutral investigation.
According to a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued today, the PAA declared that Pakistan’s airspace would remain closed to all aircraft registered in India.
The restriction also applies to aircraft operated, owned or leased by Indian airlines or operators, including military flights, the NOTAM added.
The ban covers both of Pakistan’s flight information regions – Karachi and Lahore – as detailed in documentation from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority.
The latest NOTAM was issued just days before the previous restriction was set to expire on April 24.
The continued airspace ban has resulted in significant financial losses for Indian airlines, which are forced to take longer alternative routes.
These diversions have increased flight times and fuel costs for services between India and destinations in Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia.
