Pakistan is reportedly set to extend the closure of its airspace for Indian flights for another month, according to media reports on Wednesday, May 21, 2025. This decision follows a ban imposed last month in response to steps taken by New Delhi after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists.
The initial ban, set to expire on May 23, is being extended in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) rules, which limit airspace restrictions to a maximum of one month at a time, requiring periodic renewals. Geo News, citing sources, indicates that the formal announcement is expected imminently, with a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) to follow.
This development occurs amidst heightened tensions between the two nations after India's precision strikes under 'Operation Sindoor' on terror infrastructure within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7, which were a response to the Pahalgam attack. The Indian military has asserted that Pakistan pleaded for a cessation of military actions after India targeted eight military installations on May 10, following alleged attempts by Pakistan to target Indian military bases.
Similar airspace restrictions have been imposed by Pakistan during previous conflicts, including the Kargil conflict in 1999 and the Pulwama crisis in 2019.
The closure of Pakistani airspace has significant implications for Indian airlines. Flights are forced to take longer routes, increasing fuel consumption, extending journey times, and adding operational complexities. IndiGo, for instance, has already cancelled flights to Almaty in Kazakhstan and Tashkent in Uzbekistan until May 7, as these destinations fall outside the operational range of its current fleet due to rerouting limitations. The airline anticipates that approximately 50 international routes will be affected, requiring longer flight paths. Air India also expects increased travel times for flights to and from North America, the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
These longer routes are pushing up operating costs, potentially leading to slimmer profit margins for airlines already competing in a cut-throat market. Some low-cost routes may become unviable due to the increased detours.
Air India has reportedly requested financial relief from the Indian government, estimating potential losses of over $591 million (50 billion Indian rupees) annually if the ban persists. The airline has proposed a "subsidy model" to compensate for the economic impact, particularly concerning additional fuel consumption and crew costs.
Industry experts estimate that the airspace closure could cost Indian airlines between $10 million and $15 million per month, encompassing direct operational costs and indirect revenue losses from flight cancellations, reduced cargo capacity, and schedule disruptions. Flights to Europe are experiencing delays of approximately 1.5 hours, with increased flight distances adding an estimated $1,350 to $3,000 per flight due to higher fuel consumption.
While Indian airlines face substantial financial strain, Pakistani aviation operations have remained largely unaffected, with only a few eastbound flights being rerouted via China.
