Pakistan has expanded his ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace for another month. The ban was originally introduced on April 24 after India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.
According to a message to Airmen (Notam) issued by Pakistan Airports Authority on Monday, the country’s airspace will remain closed to all Indian commercial and military aircraft until July 23, 2025.
The restriction applies to all Indian registered aircraft, including those who are leasing, and cover both passenger and military aircraft. “The ban has been extended for a month. Indian aircraft, including chartered and rented, do not have permission to enter the Pakistani airspace,” Notam said.
The ban has resulted in significant operational and economic setbacks for Indian carriers. Aviation Insiders estimate the losses to India to over RS8.2 billion due to redirection costs, longer flights and suspended shipping operations.
As the ban continues, industrial experts warn that Indian carriers may soon be forced to cut routes or wander prices and transfer the burden to passengers unless diplomatic channels find a way to clear the air.
Pakistan began the closure of the airspace as tensions flared between Pakistan and India after a 22 April attack in Pahaldam, Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), leaving 26 civilians dead.
India accused Pakistan-based elements without providing evidence, and Islamabad rejected the claims. In response, India closed the Wagah border, revoked Visa and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty -Moves Pakistan called an “act of war.”
The conflict was intensified with India’s missile attack and drone penetration as it launched its Operation Sindoor.
On May 10, Pakistan Operation Bunyanum Marsoos launched as retaliation and announced that it had put down five Indian jets-inclusive Rafales and captured 77 Israeli-made Harop drones.
After diplomatic intervention led by Washington, both sides agreed to stop military activity across land, air and sea.
