Pakistan has extended its airspace ban on Indian aircraft for the third consecutive month, with the new restrictions in effect until July 24, 2025. This decision, implemented through a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), prolongs the initial ban that began on April 24, amid lingering tensions between the two countries.
The airspace closure prohibits all Indian-registered, -operated, -owned, or -leased aircraft, including commercial and military flights, from transiting Pakistani airspace. However, Pakistani airspace remains accessible to other international carriers. India has reciprocated with a similar ban on Pakistani flights, which was also extended until June 23, continuing a tit-for-tat policy.
The initial ban was imposed following the Pahalgam terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in multiple fatalities. Islamabad, while denying involvement, responded by suspending visas, expelling diplomats, and closing its airspace to Indian airlines. This move has significantly impacted Indian airlines, particularly Air India and IndiGo, which are experiencing considerable operational strain.
Air India projects approximately $600 million in additional annual costs due to detours, increased fuel consumption, and the need for extra crew. The airline has requested government subsidies to offset these financial burdens. To cope with longer routes, India's aviation regulator has approved extensions to maximum duty and rest periods for long-haul crews, allowing flights of up to 16 hours without standard layover breaks.
The extended airspace ban is affecting approximately 800 weekly flights of Indian airlines, leading to longer durations, increased fuel burn, and complexities in crew and flight scheduling. Flights from North Indian airports, such as Delhi, Amritsar, Jaipur, and Lucknow, are particularly impacted, with Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport being the most affected.
This is not the first time Pakistan has closed its airspace to India. A similar situation occurred in 2019, following the Balakot airstrikes by the Indian Air Force, which led to substantial losses for Indian airlines due to increased fuel expenses and operational challenges. Air India, which operates numerous flights to Europe, North America, and Canada, was the worst affected carrier at that time.
