In a continued cycle of reciprocal actions, India has extended its ban on Pakistani aircraft from using its airspace until September 24. This decision, formalized through a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), comes shortly after Pakistan issued a similar extension, keeping its airspace closed to Indian aircraft until September 25. With these extensions, the airspace closures between the two countries have entered their fifth month.

The initial restrictions were put in place following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people. India, holding Pakistan responsible for the attack, initially closed its airspace on April 30, prompting a tit-for-tat response from Pakistan. The current ban prohibits Pakistani airlines and aircraft, including military flights, from entering Indian airspace.

These airspace closures have resulted in significant disruptions and financial implications for airlines. Indian airlines are forced to reroute flights, leading to increased fuel consumption, longer travel times, and higher operational costs. Air India, for example, has had to suspend services between New Delhi and Washington, D.C., due to aircraft shortages exacerbated by the airspace closure and planned upgrades to its aging Boeing planes. The airline had estimated that the Pakistani airspace ban could lead to approximately $600 million in additional expenses over a year.

Pakistan's aviation sector is also suffering substantial losses due to the restrictions. The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has reported losses of over Rs 1,240 crore (approximately $42 million USD) due to the two-month ban. Overflight traffic has decreased by 20%, with the ban affecting nearly 100–150 Indian aircraft that previously flew through Pakistani airspace daily. The increased flight routes have also led to higher fuel burn, crew rotations, and operational costs for Pakistani airlines.

The ongoing airspace restrictions reflect the continuing tensions between India and Pakistan. While Pakistan's airspace remains open to other international flights, the ban specifically targets Indian-registered or leased aircraft, including those operated by Indian operators and military flights. Similarly, India's restrictions apply to Pakistan-registered aircraft, including those operated, owned, or leased by Pakistani airlines or operators, as well as military flights.

A NOTAM is a notice containing information concerning the establishment, condition, or change in any aeronautical facility, service, procedure or hazard, the timely knowledge of which is essential to personnel concerned with flight operations. These notices are issued by aviation authorities to inform pilots and aviation personnel about temporary or urgent changes that may affect flight safety or operations.